Chepala Vepudu

Method

1. 1

   Prepare fish: Clean 500g firm fish. Cut into 2-cm pieces. Wash and pat dry. No whole fish with head visible.

2. 2

   Marinate fish: Mix with 1 tsp turmeric, 1.5 tsp red chilli powder and salt. Marinate 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Fry marinated fish: Heat 3 tbsp oil. Fry fish pieces on medium heat 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked. Remove.

4. 4

   Make tempering: In the same oil add 1 tsp mustard seeds. When they pop add 1 tsp urad dal and fry golden.

5. 5

   Add aromatics: Add 2 dried red chillies, 1 sprig curry leaves, a pinch of asafoetida and 5 sliced garlic cloves.

6. 6

   Add onion: Add 1 finely chopped onion. Cook 8 minutes until golden.

7. 7

   Add tomatoes and spices: Add 2 chopped tomatoes and cook 5 minutes. Add 1 tsp red chilli powder and 1 tsp coriander powder. Fry 2 minutes.

8. 8

   Add fried fish: Add the fried fish pieces back. Toss gently to coat in the masala.

9. 9

   Cook together: Cook on medium heat 3-4 minutes until masala clings to the fish.

10. 10

    Serve: Adjust salt. Chepala vepudu should be dry and well-spiced. Serve with steamed rice.