I really don’t know how many of you might have tried this or whether you know it, but I sure know some readers out there must have raised an eyebrow….Yes.. the most easiest way in cooking Sardines , without any mess and a perfect side dish.
Now Sardines ( usually known as Challa or Mathi in Kerala) is a very common fish that almost all of us cook. The most common of all being frying or making it into different versions of curry. But this one was spotted by my mom some time ago and since then, this is one dish that pops us very commonly at home. After tasting it from her, my hubby always insist that we make it when we buy Sardines. We have named this dish as’Cooker Chala’ …lol…..
Since this is being pressure cooked, the bones also get very soft and mushy and so kids could also have it, without fear. Tastes best with Chapati or Roti ( Indian Flat Breads) . So next time you have Sardines with you, try this and you would love it.
Servings – 3-4
Ingredients
9-10 Medium Sized Sardines cut into halves.
1 1/2 Cup finely chopped Onion
2 1/2 cups finely chopped tomatoes
1 tsp Ginger
6-7 Medium sized Garlic cloves
1 tbsp finely chopped Green Chilies
1 tbsp Curry leaves
1 tbsp Chilly Powder
1 tsp Turmeric Powder
1 1/2 tbsp Coriander Powder
2 tbsp Tamarind Water ( Tamarinds used for Sambar)
1 tbsp oil
Salt to taste
Method
. Clean the Sardines thoroughly till they are shiny.
. Put in all the ingredients together in a pressure cooker and mix well with your hands.
. Close lid and cook for 5-6 whistles.
. Once the pressure is released completely, remove lid and just give a slight smash with the bask of a spoon.
. Serve hot and enjoy the simple great dish.
5-6 whistles, really? I would think the fish would be well over cooked.
The fish need to be really soft and mushy….that is the hit for this recipe….