Nethili Karuvadu Thokku, a sun-dried anchovy stir-fry, is a flavourful South Indian side dish bursting with intense, umami richness. This simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe transforms humble dried anchovies into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for pairing with rice, dosa, idli, or even as a flavorful snack. The pungent aroma of the karuvadu, combined with the carefully balanced spices, creates a taste experience unlike any other. This dish is a testament to the magic of simple cooking, elevating everyday ingredients to something truly special. Its rustic charm belies the depth of flavour achieved.
The intense flavour profile of Nethili Karuvadu Thokku comes from a blend of traditional South Indian spices, carefully sautéed to unlock their full potential. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Ready to embark on a flavour journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious batch of Nethili Karuvadu Thokku.
Tools Needed
- Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- Nethili Karuvadu (Dried Anchovies)
- Onion
- Tomato
- Green Chili
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Curry Leaves
- Mustard Seeds
- Oil
- Salt
- Turmeric Powder
- Chili Powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the aromatics and vegetables
- Preparation of ingredients (Chopping onions, tomatoes, chilies, ginger, and garlic)
Step 2. Temper the spices and sauté vegetables
- Heat oil in a frying pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add curry leaves and saute until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions, ginger, garlic and green chilies. Saute until the onions turn translucent.
- Add chopped tomatoes and saute until they soften.
Step 3. Add the Nethili Karuvadu and spices
- Add turmeric powder and chili powder. Mix well.
- Add the dried anchovies (Nethili Karuvadu). Stir gently to prevent breaking.
Step 4. Cook the fish and finish the dish
- Add salt to taste and continue to stir until the fish is well-cooked and the oil separates.
Read more: Crispy Chilli Chana Recipe: Restaurant-Style Crunchy Chickpeas
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chilies based on your spice preference.
- Ensure the fish is dry before cooking to prevent it from sticking.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh anchovies instead of dried (karuvadu)?
While this recipe uses dried anchovies for their specific flavor and texture, you can experiment with fresh ones. However, you'll need to adjust cooking time as they will require less cooking. You may also want to add a little extra oil.
2. What can I do if my thokku is too spicy?
If your thokku is too spicy, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of yogurt to help balance the heat. Adding a little sugar can also help mellow the spice.
This simple Nethili Karuvadu Thokku recipe delivers a punch of flavour that's sure to become a new favourite. Enjoy this delicious side dish with your favourite South Indian meal, or simply savor it as a standalone snack. Happy cooking!