Fried Anchovies

Anchovies are a small variety of fish found in the Atlantic, Pacific & Indian ocean. They are known as Netholi or Kozhuva in Malayalam. Fried anchovies are a popular dish in the state of Kerala. It is usually served with rice and sometimes as an appetizer. Surprisingly, it is quite a popular dish in Spain too. During our visit to Spain in 2010, we went to a "Tapa" place where this delicious dish was served.  Coming back to fried anchovy, I had first tasted this at a relative"s home in Kerala, which of course had a spicy tang to it. Here is my version of spicy fried anchovies.
Servings: 6 yield(s)
Prep Time: 50 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Ingredients
  • 1 pound whole anchovies
  • 1 tbsp chilli powder
  • 1 tbsp salt (to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp fresh ground pepper (to taste)
  • 1 lemon/lime juice
  • 2 tbsp plain flour
  • Some oil (for deep frying)
Instructions
  1. Wash anchovies well under running water. Remove the head and clean the insides of the fish. It is very easy to do so. Run a small knife along the anchovy belly & remove the insides. Clean & pat dry the fish with kitchen towels.
  2. Make a paste of all the spice ingredients (chilli, turmeric, coriander, pepper, salt, lime juice) & rub it well on the anchovies. Keep aside for about half an hour.
  3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan. Sprinkle the flour all over the marinated anchovies & mix. Fry anchovies, a few at a time on medium heat for about 10 minutes for each batch until they turn brown & crispy. Take them out on a paper lined platter. Serve hot.