Mathi Fry ( Sardine Fry )

Mathi Fry ( Sardine Fry )

Mathi / Chaala / Sardine fry is very popular in Kerala Cuisine. Goes well with Choru ( rice ) and Meen curry ( fish curry ).

Makes: 10
Serves: 2 - 3

You will need

10 mathi / sardine
100 ml oil for frying

For the marinade:

1 tablespoon lemon juice or 1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon red chilli powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
3/4 teaspoon salt to taste

Mix all the ingredients well and keep aside.

Method

Wash and clean mathi. Add 1 teaspoon salt ( or kalluppu ) and wash well. Drain out water completely and wipe with a kitchen towel.

Marinate mathi with above ingredients ( do not add extra water ) and keep aside for half an hour.

In a pan or kadai, heat oil. Reduce heat to medium and deep fry mathi ( 4 - 5 mathi at a time ) in batches till golden brown on both sides.

Serve with rice ( choru ), fish curry, thoran and rasam.

Health Benefits of Mathi / Sardine

Sardines are considered as brain food because the omega-3 fatty acids in sardines are important for the brain memory and performance.

Sardines omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and therefore beneficial to those people suffering from joint problems like arthritis.

Sardines are high in calcium and vitamin D which help promote stronger bones.

Sardines contain Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) an antioxidant that is enhances physical energy and cardiovascular health. Coenzyme Q10 is beneficial for those people with hypertension and heart abnormalities.

Sardines are also an excellent source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid.

The high protein content of sardines helps to promote a feeling of fullness and the lack of carbohydrates helps to keep blood sugars stable.