Mathi Fry Recipe — Kerala Sardine Fry
Mathi (sardine) is the most affordable and nutritious fish in Kerala. It is high in omega-3 and pairs perfectly with rice and moru (buttermilk curry). The fry is quick — under 25 minutes — and the result is crispy, spiced and satisfying. Freshness matters a lot with mathi, so same-day delivery from Onsup is ideal.
Ingredients
- 500 g fresh mathi (sardines), cleaned
- 2 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Curry leaves
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- Salt to taste
Preparation Time
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 12 minutes | Total: 22 minutes | Serves: 4
Cooking Method
- 1Clean sardines — remove scales, gut and rinse well. Score with 2 cuts on each side.
- 2Mix chilli powder, turmeric, pepper, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice and salt into a thick paste.
- 3Coat sardines in the marinade and rest for 10 minutes.
- 4Heat coconut oil in a wide pan. Add curry leaves.
- 5Fry sardines on medium-high for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
- 6Serve with rice, thoran and moru curry.
Tips for Better Taste
- •Mathi must be very fresh — it turns strong-smelling quickly.
- •Pat dry before marinating for best results.
- •Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
- •A squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens the flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mathi available for delivery in Kozhikode?
Yes. Onsup Fresh delivers fresh mathi (sardines) in Kozhikode / Calicut. We stock fresh mathi daily from morning.
Should mathi be cleaned before frying?
Yes. Remove the scales, gut and rinse thoroughly. You can request pre-cleaned sardines when ordering from Onsup.
Order fresh fish or meat for this recipe from Onsup Fresh — cleaned, cut & delivered to your door in Kozhikode.