In the southern coastal state of India, Kerala, food is not just a meal but a celebration of flavors. One such exquisite delicacy from the land of spices is the “Fish Mappas,” a traditional dish cherished by locals and visitors alike. Bursting with aromatic spices and coconut milk, this recipe (Fish Mappas Recipe Kerala Style) perfectly blends richness and subtlety. In this article, we will guide you through preparing authentic Kerala-style Fish Mappas, bringing the essence of Kerala’s culinary heritage to your kitchen. So, let’s dive in and embark on this gastronomic adventure with United Fish!
Understanding the Essence of Fish Mappas
Fish Mappas is a coconut-based fish curry that traces its roots back to the Malabar region of Kerala. “Mappas” is derived from Malayalam, meaning “to stew.” This classic dish is characterized by its creamy texture, thanks to the generous use of coconut milk and the perfect balance of spices that bring out the fish’s natural flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we begin the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients for preparing the delectable Fish Mappas:
Fresh fish fillets (such as Seer Fish, Kingfish, or Pomfret) – 500g
Coconut oil – 2 tablespoons
Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
Curry leaves – a sprig
Shallots (finely sliced) – 1 cup
Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
Green chilies (slit) – 2
Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
Coriander powder – 1 tablespoon
Black pepper powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Thin coconut milk – 1 cup
Thick coconut milk – 1 cup
Tomato (sliced) – 1
Step-by-Step Preparation(Fish Mappas Recipe Kerala Style)
Cleaning and Marinating the Fish
Begin by cleaning the fish fillets thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Marinate the fish with a pinch of turmeric powder and salt. Set it aside for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a deep-bottomed pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Toss in the curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds. Add the finely sliced shallots and cook until they turn golden brown.
Blending Flavors
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sautéing until the raw smell disappears. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and black pepper powder to this mixture. Sauté the spices for a minute to release their flavors.
Creating Creaminess with Coconut Milk
Now, it’s time to introduce the star ingredient – coconut milk. Pour in the thin coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors amalgamate.
Cooking the Fish
Carefully place the marinated fish fillets into the pan, fully submerging them in the coconut milk. Add the sliced tomatoes and season with salt as per your taste preferences. Cover the pan and let the fish cook in the luscious coconut milk gravy for 10 minutes on low heat.
Adding the Final Touch
Finally, it’s time to introduce the thick coconut milk to the dish. Gently pour it over the fish, giving the curry its signature richness. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the fish becomes tender and thoroughly infused with the flavors of the Pappas gravy.
Serving the Fish Mappas
Your scrumptious Kerala-style Fish Mappas are now ready to be served! Traditionally, it is paired with steamed rice or appam, a rice-based pancake with a soft center and crispy edges. Garnish the dish with a few curry leaves and serve it hot to relish the full flavors.
Congratulations! You have successfully prepared authentic Fish Mappas Recipe Kerala Style that will delight your taste buds and transport you to the enchanting land of Kerala(Fish Mappas Recipe Kerala Style). This dish’s rich blend of coconut milk and aromatic spices makes it a culinary masterpiece. So, head over to United Fish, gather the freshest fish, and follow this recipe to bring the essence of Kerala cuisine to your dining table. Happy cooking!