Sura Puttu

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil the Shark

   • Clean the shark pieces thoroughly under running water.
   • In a medium pot, combine the shark pieces, 4 cups of water, 0.5 tsp of turmeric powder, and 0.5 tsp of salt.
   • Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
   • Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the shark meat is firm, opaque, and cooked through.
   • Drain the water completely using a colander and set the shark aside to cool down to room temperature.
2. 2

   Prepare the Shark Meat

   • Once the shark is cool enough to handle, carefully peel off and discard the skin.
   • Remove the central bone and any other small bones you may find.
   • Using your fingers, crumble the cooked shark meat into a fine, flaky texture, similar to scrambled eggs. Set aside.
3. 3

   Temper and Sauté Aromatics

   • Heat the gingelly oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
   • Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely.
   • Add the urad dal and sauté for about 30 seconds until it turns a light golden brown.
   • Add the finely chopped small onions, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and curry leaves.
   • Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become soft, translucent, and start to brown at the edges.
4. 4

   Cook the Sura Puttu

   • Add the remaining 0.25 tsp of turmeric powder and mix well with the sautéed onions.
   • Add the crumbled shark meat to the pan along with the remaining 0.75 tsp of salt.
   • Gently mix everything together, ensuring the shark meat is evenly coated with the spices.
   • Cook on medium-low heat for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to let all the moisture evaporate, resulting in a dry, fragrant 'puttu'.
5. 5

   Garnish and Serve

   • Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper powder and chopped coriander leaves over the puttu.
   • Mix well and cook for one final minute to incorporate the flavors.
   • Turn off the heat. If using, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and give it a final toss.
   • Serve Sura Puttu hot as a side dish with rice and sambar or rasam.