ഉണക്ക നെത്തോലി വറുത്തത് - Unakka Natholi/Dry Anchovies Fry

Unakka Natholi/ Dry Anchovies – 200 grms
Ginger Garlic paste – ½ tblsp
Turmeric Powder – ¼ tsp
Red Chilli Powder – 2 tsp
Coriander Powder – 1 tsp
Corn flour /Rice flour- 1 tblsp
Lime juice – 1 tblsp
Crushed Peppercorns – 2 tsp
Curry leaves – 1 sprig
Salt – to taste
Oil – as required

Method:

Soak the dried Netholi in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Pinch off the head part and clean it. Wash them thoroughly for about 3 to 4 times with fresh water.

Squeeze the Netholi well and place it in a bowl. Add the ginger & garlic paste, turmeric powder , red chilli powder, coriander powder, corn flour, lemon juice, salt (use very less salt as the dry fish is already salted and preserved) and mix well until the masala coats in each and every fish. (If required sprinkle little water). Keep it aside for at least 10-15 minutes.

Heat oil in a pan. Once it is hot, add curry leaves followed by marinated Netholi. Fry the Netholi on low heat until they turn golden brown in colour and crisp. Finally add the crushed peppercorns, mix well and switch off the heat.