Karimeen Pollichathu [fish]

 Karimeen Pollichathu is a famous Kerala dish made with marinated pearl spot fish, wrapped in banana leaf, and cooked to perfection. Here's how you can prepare Karimeen Pollichathu:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized Karimeen (pearl spot) fish, cleaned and scaled
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• Curry leaves for garnishing
• Banana leaves (cut into rectangular pieces) for wrapping

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, fennel seeds, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt to form a smooth paste.
2. Make slits on both sides of the fish and apply the prepared masala paste all over the fish, including the slits. Ensure the fish is well coated with the masala. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add curry leaves and let them splutter.
4. Place the marinated fish on a banana leaf and fold the leaf to cover the fish completely.
5. Heat a tawa or a flat griddle and place the wrapped fish on it.
6. Cook the fish on low to medium heat for about 7-8 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and the banana leaf becomes slightly charred.
7. Remove from heat and carefully open the banana leaf.
8. Serve the Karimeen Pollichathu hot with steamed rice or appam.

Note: If banana leaves are not available, you can use aluminum foil as an alternative for wrapping the fish.

Karimeen Pollichathu is a delightful dish with a unique flavor. Enjoy the authentic taste of Kerala with this traditional preparation!