Goan Fish Cutlet Pao
Crispy semolina-coated fish patties tucked inside soft Goan pao bread. This popular street food snack is packed with tangy and spicy flavors, making for a perfect evening treat or a quick, satisfying meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Cutlet Mixture
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and flaked tuna. Ensure the potatoes are smooth and free of lumps.
- c.Add the finely chopped red onion, green chilies, ginger paste, and garlic paste to the bowl.
- d.Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
- e.Pour in the white vinegar and add the chopped coriander leaves. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands until a uniform, cohesive dough-like mixture is formed. Let it rest for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Shape and Coat the Cutlets
- b.Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Lightly grease your palms with oil to prevent sticking.
- c.Take one portion and roll it into a ball, then gently flatten it to form a patty about 1-inch thick.
- d.Spread the rava (semolina) on a flat plate. Place a patty on the rava and press gently, flipping to coat both sides evenly. Ensure the edges are also coated.
- e.Shake off any excess rava and set the coated cutlet aside. Repeat for the remaining portions.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shallow Fry the Cutlets
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a wide, non-stick skillet or pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- c.Carefully place the coated cutlets in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry in batches if necessary.
- d.Fry for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, or until it becomes golden brown and crisp.
- e.Flip the cutlets gently and fry for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until equally crisp and cooked through.
- f.Once done, remove the cutlets and place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Take the pao buns and slice them horizontally through the middle, leaving one side hinged.
- c.Optional: Lightly toast the inside of the pao on a pan with a little butter for extra flavor and texture.
- d.Place a hot, crispy fish cutlet inside each pao.
- e.Top with a few fresh onion rings.
- f.Serve the Goan Fish Cutlet Pao immediately with a side of tomato ketchup or green chutney.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the boiled potatoes are completely cool and dry before mashing. Excess moisture can make the cutlets soggy and difficult to shape.
- 2For a truly authentic Goan flavor, use coconut vinegar instead of white vinegar.
- 3Press the rava coating firmly onto the patties to ensure it adheres well and creates a crispy crust during frying.
- 4Maintain a consistent medium heat while frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. If it's not hot enough, the cutlets will absorb too much oil.
- 5If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or roasted besan (gram flour) to help bind it.
- 6For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of Goan Recheado masala to the cutlet mixture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fish Type
Instead of canned tuna, you can use freshly boiled and flaked kingfish (visvonn), mackerel (bangda), or even canned sardines.
CoatingCoating
If you don't have rava, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different kind of crispy coating.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Replace the fish with mashed paneer, boiled raw bananas, or a mixture of mashed vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies or add a pinch of black pepper powder to the mixture for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Tuna is a high-quality protein source, crucial for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish like tuna are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels, as well as boosting brain function.
Provides Sustained Energy
The potatoes in the cutlets are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy to keep you active throughout the day.
Contains Anti-inflammatory Spices
Ingredients like turmeric (containing curcumin) and ginger have natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect the body against cellular damage.
Frequently asked questions
A single Goan Fish Cutlet Pao contains approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the size of the pao and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.