Amritsari Fish is a delicious and flavorful dish hailing from the vibrant city of Amritsar in Punjab, India. This popular Indian cuisine features marinated fish fillets that are coated in a spicy gram flour batter and deep-fried to crispy perfection. The dish is known for its unique blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and ajwain, which infuse the fish with a bold and aromatic flavor. Often served with tangy green chutney and lemon wedges, Amritsari Fish has become a favorite among seafood lovers and is especially popular in Indian restaurants worldwide. As one food enthusiast puts it, “Amritsari Fish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Punjab.” Its irresistible taste and crunchy texture have made it a staple at gatherings and celebrations, contributing to its enduring popularity in both traditional and modern Indian cuisine.
Amritsari Fish: A Culinary Delight
Amritsari Fish is a traditional Indian dish that originates from the vibrant city of Amritsar in Punjab. Renowned for its rich flavors and crispy texture, this dish is typically made with fresh fish fillets marinated in a blend of spices and batter-fried to perfection. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer or starter, served with mint chutney and lemon wedges. This recipe captures the essence of Punjab’s culinary heritage and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Preparation
History of Amritsari Fish
The roots of Amritsari Fish can be traced back to the coastal regions of India, where fish has been a staple in the diet. Over time, this dish became popular in Amritsar, thanks to the influence of local Punjabi spices and cooking methods. It reflects the rich heritage of Amritsar’s savory delights, combining spices and fresh fish to create a mouth-watering experience that has won hearts far beyond Punjab.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fish fillets (preferably basa or kingfish) | 500 grams |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 cup |
| Rice flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Cooking oil | for frying |
| Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) | optional |
Steps to Prepare Amritsari Fish
- Clean the Fish: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Marinate the Fish: In a mixing bowl, combine ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Coat the Fish: Add the fish fillets to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
- Prepare the Batter: In another bowl, mix gram flour and rice flour. Add a little water to make a smooth, thick batter.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat for frying. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and float up.
- Fry the Fish: Take each marinated fish fillet, dip it into the batter, allowing excess batter to drip off, and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, remove the fish from the oil and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Enjoy your homemade Amritsari Fish as a delightful starter or snack, and savor the authentic flavors of Punjab!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amritsari Fish?
Amritsari Fish is a popular Indian dish made from fish marinated in spices, coated in gram flour, and deep-fried until crispy.
What type of fish is used in Amritsari Fish?
Typically, catfish or bombay duck is used, but other firm white fish can also be substituted.
How is Amritsari Fish prepared?
The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices, ginger-garlic paste, and lemon juice, then coated in gram flour before frying.
What spices are used in Amritsari Fish?
Common spices include cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and turmeric.
What is the best way to serve Amritsari Fish?
Amritsari Fish is best served hot with mint chutney and sliced onions for added flavor.
Is Amritsari Fish spicy?
Yes, it can be spicy depending on the amount of chili powder used in the marinade.
Can Amritsari Fish be made in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make Amritsari Fish in an air fryer by applying a thin layer of oil to achieve a crispy texture.
Is Amritsari Fish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free gram flour (besan), Amritsari Fish can be gluten-free.
How long does it take to cook Amritsari Fish?
It typically takes about 10-15 minutes to cook Amritsari Fish, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Can Amritsari Fish be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the fish and store it in the fridge for a few hours before frying.
What are common side dishes served with Amritsari Fish?
Common sides include rice, naan, or roti, along with a salad.
Is Amritsari Fish healthy?
While it is delicious, Amritsari Fish is deep-fried, which makes it higher in calories; moderation is key.
Where did Amritsari Fish originate?
Amritsari Fish originated in the city of Amritsar, located in the northern Indian state of Punjab.
What is the significance of Amritsari Fish in Indian cuisine?
It is a celebrated dish in Punjabi cuisine, known for its rich flavors and crispy texture, often enjoyed during festivals and gatherings.
