Pedve Ghashi (sardines curry)

Pedvo(sardines) as it is known among Konkanis is a fish high in omega-3 fatty acids and iron content. It is considered to be extremely beneficial if consumed by women during pregnancy and tastes great even otherwise. Konkanis usually prepare ghashi or deep fry this fish.

Here's the recipe for Pedve ghashi:

Ingredients:

1. Fresh or frozen sardines (9-10)
2. 3/4 cup fresh/frozen grated coconut or coconut powder
3. 7-8 roasted red chillies(Bedgi)
4. 1/2 tsp tamarind concentrate
5. 1tsp coriander seeds
6. 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds
7. 8-10 Szechuan pepper (Teppal) (optional)
8. 1 tsp coconut oil (optional)
9. Salt to taste

Method:

1. If using frozen fish, thaw it in cold/lukewarm water first.
2. Chop off the head and tail and clean the fish thoroughly.
3. Rub a little salt and turmeric over the fish and keep it aside.
4. Roast the coriander and fenugreek seeds together in 1/2 tsp oil till they turn slightly brown.
5. Grind the coconut powder or fresh/frozen grated cocunut, roasted red chillies, tamarind concentrate, roasted coriander and fenugreek seeds into a fine paste.
6. Empty this paste into a vessel and heat it until it starts boiling.
7. Now add the fish to this paste, add salt to taste and boil for another 5-10 minutes on a medium flame.
8. Since fish gets cooked very fast, keep checking the curry frequently taking care to see that it does not get overcooked.
9. Once the fish is fully cooked(the fish flesh should turn completely white on the inside), sprinkle some coconut oil over the curry and turn off the gas.
10. For added flavor, you can also add slightly ground Szechuan pepper (Teppal) to the curry while it boils.
11. Serve hot with rice, upkari and some plain yogurt!