Gavti Fish Rava Fry
Crispy, golden pan-fried fish with a coarse semolina crust that shatters beautifully with every bite. Marinated in a bold ginger-garlic and spice paste, this coastal favorite from Maharashtra and Goa is quick to put together and tastes just like a beachside shack fry.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Marinate the fish.
1.Pat the fish fillets completely dry with a kitchen towel.2.In a mixing bowl, combine ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, lemon juice, and salt into a thick paste.3.Rub this paste all over the fish fillets, making sure to get it into the scores.4.Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature. - prep · ~1 min
Prepare the semolina coating.
On a flat plate, spread out the semolina and rice flour. Mix well with your fingertips to combine evenly.
- fry · ~10 min
Coat and shallow fry the fish.
1.Place the marinated fillet on the semolina mix and press gently so the coating sticks on both sides and the edges.2.Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium heat until shimmering.3.Lay the coated fillets in the pan gently without overcrowding. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom turns deep golden and crisp.4.Flip carefully with tongs and fry the other side for another 3 minutes until cooked through and the rava is evenly toasted.TIPDon't crowd the pan — fry in two batches and add the remaining oil for the second batch to keep the fish crisp. - serve
Serve immediately with onion rings and lemon wedges.
Transfer the fried fish to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil for 30 seconds, then move to a serving plate. Pile fresh onion rings on the side and tuck in a lemon wedge.
TIPEat it piping hot, straight from the pan — the crust loses crunch as it cools.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat the fish fillets bone-dry before marinating to help the spice paste adhere better.
- 2Use a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution and a crispier crust.
- 3Rest the coated fish on a wire rack for 2 minutes before frying so the semolina sets.
- 4Fry in batches and do not flip the fillet more than once to prevent the crust from falling off.
- 5Add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to cut through the richness of the fry.
- 6Serve immediately — the semolina crust softens quickly as the fish sits.
Adapt it for your goals.
Air-fried
For a lower-oil version, spray the coated fillets lightly with oil and air-fry at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. The crust stays crunchy without deep frying.
Gluten freeGluten-free
Substitute semolina with 1/2 cup chickpea flour (besan) and 1/2 cup rice flour for a gluten-free coating that still turns golden and crisp.
Spicy Peri PeriSpicy Peri-Peri
Replace red chili powder with 1 tbsp peri-peri spice blend and add a dash of vinegar to the marinade for a fiery Goan-Portuguese twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Firm white fish like pomfret or kingfish provides high-quality, low-fat protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish is naturally rich in omega-3s, which support heart health and reduce inflammation when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
No Deep Frying
Shallow frying with just 4 tablespoons of oil keeps the dish lighter than traditional deep-fried fish preparations.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but thaw them completely in the fridge and pat very dry with paper towels before marinating to avoid excess moisture that makes the coating soggy.
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