മീൻ പീര / kerala style meen peera(ചൂട)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to prepare a traditional Kerala dish called Meen Peera, which is a flavorful fish dish made with grated coconut and various spices. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, allowing you to use any small fish. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking steps!

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Collect the following ingredients to prepare Meen Peera:

• 250 grams of Chooda meen (small fish)
• 1 cup of grated coconut
• 6 medium spicy green chilies
• 1 small piece of ginger
• A handful of curry leaves
• 5 shallots
• 3 pieces of kudampuli (gambooge)
• 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Practical Tip

Make sure the fish is cleaned and ready to cook. You can use frozen fish if fresh is not available.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

Before cooking, prep your ingredients:

• Grate the Coconut: If using fresh coconut, grate it finely.
• Chop the Vegetables: Slice the green chilies, ginger, and shallots.
• Soak Kudampuli: Soak the kudampuli in water for about 15-20 minutes to soften.

Common Pitfall

Avoid using too many green chilies if you prefer a milder taste. Adjust based on your spice tolerance.

Step 3: Cook the Fish

Follow these steps to cook the fish:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cleaned fish, grated coconut, chopped green chilies, ginger, shallots, turmeric powder, curry leaves, kudampuli (with the soaking water), and salt.

2. Cooking Process:

   • Place the mixture in a pan over medium heat.
   • Cover the pan and allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Practical Tip

Adding a small amount of water can help to cook the fish evenly without burning.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the fish is cooked:

• Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
• If desired, finish with a drizzle of coconut oil for added flavor.

Real-World Application

Serve this dish hot with rice or as a side dish with traditional Kerala meals.

Conclusion

You have now successfully prepared Kerala-style Meen Peera! This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy seafood with a coconut twist. Feel free to experiment with different types of small fish or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey!