Want more deliciousness? Follow me on X @TeresasRecipes for the latest culinary creations and kitchen adventures!

Nethili Meen Varuval

Name: Nethili Meen Varuval
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Nethili Meen (Anchovies)', 'amount': '500 grams, cleaned and drained'}; {'ingredient': 'Red Chili Powder', 'amount': '1 tablespoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Turmeric Powder', 'amount': '1/2 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Fennel Seeds', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic', 'amount': '4 cloves, finely chopped'}; {'ingredient': 'Lemon Juice', 'amount': '1 tablespoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': 'to taste'}; {'ingredient': 'Oil', 'amount': 'for deep frying'}

Experience a flavor explosion with Nethili Meen Varuval, a staple in South Indian cuisine. This delightful dish is crafted with fresh anchovies, marinated in an aromatic blend of spices, and then fried to a crispy perfection. The contrasting textures and flavors will entice your palate, and the golden-brown, crispy anchovies with a hint of spice are a joy to eat. This dish echoes the coastal love for seafood in South India and is a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Nethili Meen (Anchovies) (500 grams, cleaned and drained)
Red Chili Powder (1 tablespoon)
Turmeric Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
Fennel Seeds (1 teaspoon)
Garlic (4 cloves, finely chopped)
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)
Salt (to taste)
Oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

Clean the anchovies thoroughly under running water. Drain the water completely and pat dry using paper towels.
In a mixing bowl, combine red chili powder, turmeric powder, crushed fennel seeds, finely chopped garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to form a thick marinade.
Add the cleaned anchovies to the bowl and toss well to ensure each piece is coated with the marinade. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated anchovies in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Fry until they turn crispy and golden brown, flipping occasionally for even cooking.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried anchovies from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve hot as a side dish with rice or enjoy as a snack. The crispy Nethili Meen Varuval is also perfect as a starter for a South Indian meal.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Side Dish • Prep Time: 25 minutes • Cook Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 250 • Fat: 12g • Carbs: 5g • Protein: 28g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 1g

Nethili Meen Varuval

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

Dietary Information

Related Recipes

Chicken Choila

Authentic Portuguese Piri Piri Chicken

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma Bowl