Mathi-Nellikka Vattichath (Sardine with Gooseberry)

Ingredients for Mathi-Nellikka Vattichath (Sardine with Gooseberry):

1. Sardine – 1 kg, cleaned

2. Coconut oil – 200 grams

3. Red chillies – 10 grams

    Ginger – 25 grams chopped

    Green chilli – 1, chopped

    Curry leaves – 1 stem

4. Chilli powder – one big spoon

   Coriander powder – 25 grams

   Turmeric powder – 1 small spoon

5. Dried gooseberry – Quarter cup

6. Tamarind – 20 grams, squeezed in water

    Water – As required

7. Kanthari (Bird’s eye chili) – 50 grams

How to prepare Mathi-Nellikka Vattichath (Sardine with Gooseberry)?

1. Heat coconut oil in an earthen pot.

2. Saute ingredients number 3, followed by ingredients number 4.

3. Make a fine paste of dried gooseberry and add to it.

4. Add tamarind juice and sufficient water.

5. Put a banana leaf in another earthen pot.

6. Marinate the sardine using prepared masala and bird’s eye chilli.

7. Place it inside the banana leaf and close the lid.

8. Cook in low flame until fish is well cooked and water content is fully absorbed.

Courtesy: Vanitha Magazine, September 2-15, 2023

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