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Crispy, spicy fried anchovies, a classic South Indian coastal delicacy. This popular appetizer is marinated in a blend of bold spices and fried to perfection, delivering an irresistible crunch in every bite.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Marinade Paste
Marinate the Anchovies
Shallow Fry the Fish
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Crispy, spicy fried anchovies, a classic South Indian coastal delicacy. This popular appetizer is marinated in a blend of bold spices and fried to perfection, delivering an irresistible crunch in every bite.
This south_indian recipe takes 35 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 242.39 calories per serving with 26.58g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for appetizer or side or snack.
Flip and Finish Frying
Serve Hot
For a lower-oil option, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the marinated fish in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with a little oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and cooked through.
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the marinated fish in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seed powder (saunf) or a 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala to the marinade for a slightly different and aromatic flavor profile.
Anchovies are an excellent source of Omega-3s, which are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy heart by lowering blood pressure and triglycerides.
This dish provides high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Being a small, whole fish, anchovies are rich in calcium and Vitamin D, both of which are vital for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
The marinade includes spices like turmeric and ginger, which contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help boost immunity and fight cellular damage.
A single serving of Nethili Fry (approximately 155g) contains around 300-350 calories. The exact number can vary based on the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
Nethili (anchovies) are very healthy, packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium. However, since this recipe involves shallow frying, it should be consumed in moderation. For a healthier version, consider baking or air frying the fish.
Yes, this marinade works well with other small fish like sardines (mathi) or even with fillets of larger fish like kingfish (surmai) or pomfret, cut into small pieces.
To prevent breaking, be gentle when flipping the fish. Wait until one side is fully crisp before attempting to flip, as this firms up the fish. Using a thin, wide spatula also helps.
Absolutely. You can reduce the amount of red chili powder and black pepper powder to suit your taste. The Kashmiri red chili powder adds more color than heat, so you can keep that for a vibrant look.
Store leftover Nethili Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat and regain crispiness, warm them in a pan, oven, or air fryer for a few minutes.