Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Soak and Clean Dry Fish

   Place the dry fish in a bowl. Pour hot water over the fish until fully submerged. Squeeze in half a lemon and mix well. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes to remove impurities and soften the fish.

2. 2.Remove Bones

   After soaking, carefully take each piece of dry fish and remove any bones present. Discard the bones and keep the cleaned fish.

3. 3.Marinate the Fish

   Transfer the cleaned dry fish to a bowl. Add turmeric powder, salt, coriander powder, chili powder, the juice of the remaining half lemon, black pepper powder, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix everything thoroughly until the fish is well coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

4. 4.Prepare for Frying

   Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a dosa pan or a wide flat pan. Once the oil is hot, add fennel seeds, curry leaves, and crushed garlic. Sauté these aromatics until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

5. 5.Add Marinated Fish

   Add the marinated dry fish to the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Spread the fish evenly across the pan.

6. 6.Cook with Water

   Sauté the dry fish for a few minutes. Then, pour 1/2 cup of water into the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the fish to absorb the flavors and cook through.

7. 7.Finish Frying

   Remove the lid and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until all the water has evaporated and the oil separates from the fish. The fish should be nicely fried and slightly crispy. Serve hot.