Durban Masala Fried Fish

2 fish of your choice (I have used shad) salt to taste

½ tsp red chilli flakes

1 tsp ground black pepper

2 tbs chilli powder

½ tsp jeera powder (cumin powder) ½ tsp dhania (coriander) powder

1 tsp ginger and garlic paste

¼ lemon

3 tbs oil

Rinse the fish under cold running water.

Scale and make a cut along the bottom of the fish.

Remove the intestines and entrails. Cut fish into pieces. I have removed the head and tails of the fish but, if you enjoy those parts, you may keep them intact.

Place the pieces of fish into a bowl.

Add in the spices – salt, ground black pepper, chilli powder, jeera (cumin) powder, dhania (coriander) powder and red chilli flakes.

Add the ginger and garlic paste. Squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl, discarding the seeds.

Pour in one tablespoon of oil. Mix well and allow to marinate for an hour or more.

Heat two tablespoons of oil in a pan.

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated fish into the oil.

Allow the fish to fry for about 3 minutes, on medium-high heat.

Thereafter, carefully turn the fish over and allow the other side to fry for about 3 minutes.

After frying the fish, remove from the oil and set on a plate. Serve while hot.

Goes well as is, or sandwiched in buttered bread.

My favourite way to enjoy this fish is having it as a side, with yellow split pea dhal and rice.