Masale

Masale Recipe - Delicious Fish Recipe with Coarse Salt, Garlic Powder, and Red Pepper

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Masale is a traditional Indian fish recipe that is known for its bold flavors and simple preparation method. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals.

History

Masale has been a popular dish in Indian households for generations. It is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare fish, using basic ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens.

Ingredients

1 whole fish
1 tbsp coarse salt
0.25 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp ground coarse red pepper
1 cup hot oil

How to prepare

Clean and scale the whole fish and remove the insides.
Cut three large deep diagonal gashes on each side.
Combine one tablespoon of coarse salt, a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder, and a quarter teaspoon of ground coarse red pepper for each fish.
Rub the salt mixture well into the gashes on both sides.
Fry the fish in one cup of hot oil until it turns light brown.
Reduce the heat and continue frying slowly until the fish is quite brown but not burned.
Lift the fish from the fat.
Wrap it in brown paper while still hot, let it cool, and refrigerate.
The fish will stay fresh for two weeks or longer if refrigerated.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more ground red pepper or chopped green chilies to the seasoning mixture.
You can also marinate the fish in a mixture of yogurt and spices before frying for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean and scale the fish properly before cooking to ensure a fresh taste.

- Cutting deep diagonal gashes on each side of the fish allows the seasonings to penetrate and flavor the meat.

- Frying the fish in hot oil until it turns light brown helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Wrapping the fish in brown paper while still hot helps to retain moisture and keep it fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Masale can be served with steamed rice, naan bread, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon juice on top adds a refreshing touch to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the fish in hot oil helps to create a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Make sure to fry the fish slowly to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of white fish for this recipe, such as tilapia, cod, or haddock. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Masale can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Masale on a bed of lettuce or garnish with fresh herbs for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also sprinkle some chaat masala on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Masale pairs well with a side of cucumber raita, mint chutney, or a tangy tamarind sauce. A glass of chilled lassi or mango lassi makes a refreshing beverage to accompany this spicy dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Masale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Masale contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Masale is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a carb-conscious diet. Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is rich in healthy fats from the fish and the oil used for frying. Each serving of Masale contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Fish is a great source of protein, making Masale a protein-packed meal. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Fish is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for individuals with seafood allergies. Please check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Masale is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is a great option for those looking for a low-carb meal that is easy to prepare.

Summary

Masale is a delicious and nutritious Indian fish recipe that is easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a spicy and satisfying meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Masale. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Kamala's house for a gathering of friends and family. As soon as I entered the kitchen, I was struck by the intoxicating aroma of spices wafting through the air. Kamala was busy at the stove, deftly stirring a pot filled with a rich, golden curry that seemed to be bursting with flavor.

Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she smiled mischievously before revealing that she was preparing Masale, a traditional Indian dish that had been passed down through her family for generations. Intrigued, I watched as she added a myriad of spices to the curry, each one carefully measured and added with precision.

As the Masale simmered on the stove, Kamala regaled me with stories of her grandmother, who had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl. She spoke of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, grinding fresh spices and blending them together to create the perfect balance of flavors.

I was captivated by Kamala's passion for cooking and her deep connection to her family's culinary traditions. I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make Masale for myself, so I begged her to teach me the recipe.

Over the next few weeks, Kamala patiently guided me through the process of making Masale, teaching me the importance of each spice and the proper technique for blending them together. I learned how to toast whole spices to unlock their flavors, and how to grind them into a fine powder that would infuse the curry with a depth of flavor that was truly unforgettable.

As I cooked alongside Kamala, I felt a sense of connection to my own heritage and the generations of women who had come before me. I could almost imagine my own grandmother standing beside me, guiding my hands as I stirred the pot and added each spice with care.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived as we tasted the Masale together. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each spice dancing in perfect harmony with the others to create a symphony of taste that was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I knew then that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in my own family for years to come.

Since that day, I have made Masale countless times, each batch a tribute to the women who have passed down this recipe through the ages. I have shared it with friends and family, watching as their eyes lit up with delight at the first bite of this flavorful dish.

As I sit here now, with the scent of Masale wafting through my kitchen once again, I am filled with gratitude for the gift that Kamala gave me that day. The gift of a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to my roots and the rich tapestry of flavors that make up my culinary heritage.

And so, as I stir the pot and add the final touches to my Masale, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that will be cherished for generations to come. And for that, I am eternally grateful.