Get ready to master the art of chepala pulusu, a fish curry that’s as captivating as a Telugu dance performance.What is pulusu fish? Pulusu translates to “sour” or “tangy,” and that’s exactly what this curry delivers.
Andhra Chepala Pulusu is the rockstar of the Pulusu family.
Bommidala pulusu (translates to “Bombay duck pulusu”), a variation using the Bombay duck fish, is another popular choice. But for this recipe, we’ll be focusing on the classic chepa pulusu (yep, that just means “fish pulusu”) using a fish that’s readily available in most grocery stores.
Now, the million-dollar question: best fish for Chepala Pulusu? For an authentic Andhra experience, use Rohu or Tilapia.
Ingredients
- 450g of FreshToHome Rohu fish
- 1/2 cup Tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp Red chilli powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Fenugreek seeds
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion (finely chopped)
- 2-3 Green chilies (slit)
- 2 Curry leaves
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 inch Ginger (grated)
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro (chopped) for garnish
Navigating the Culinary Seas – A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to set sail in the kitchen!
1.
Marinate the Fish for flavourful Success
Begin by marinating the fish fillets with turmeric and salt. Let them soak up these wonderful flavours while you prepare the flavourful gravy.
2.
Sizzle and Sauté – Building the Gravy’s Base
Heat oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Let them sizzle and release their aromatic essence, filling your kitchen with delicious anticipation.
3.
Spice Up Your Life – Introducing the Aromatics
Next, add chopped onions and green chillies. Sauté them until golden brown and fragrant, creating the base of your flavourful gravy.
4.
The Tangy Twist – Adding the Tamarind
Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the tamarind pulp! Dilute it with water to achieve your desired level of tanginess, then pour it into the pan.
5.
Simmering Symphony – Cooking the Fish
Season the gravy with turmeric, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt. Adjust the spice levels to create a symphony of flavour that dances on your tongue. Gently place the marinated fish fillets into the bubbling gravy, allowing them to simmer and soak up all the delicious flavours.
6.
Fresh Finish – A Touch of Green
Garnish with fresh curry leaves and chopped cilantro for a final flourish of aroma and vibrant colour.
The Joy of Savouring – A Feast for the Senses
As the aroma of Fish Pulusu fills your kitchen, it’s time to indulge! Serve this vibrant dish piping hot, accompanied by steamed rice or fluffy rotis for mopping up the delicious sauce. With each spoonful, savour the tender fish bathed in the tangy tamarind gravy – a flavour explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
Chart Your Course – Experiment and Explore!
Chepala pulusu is not just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s a symphony of flavours that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and conquer the art of this Andhra Pradesh classic. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Now go forth and spread the chepala pulusu love!
SUBMITTED BY:
Deva Darshan
FreshToHome Customer, Since 2022
Fish Lover & Home Chef