Amritsari Fish – Crispy Punjabi-Style Fried Fish

 Amritsari Fish – Crispy Punjabi-Style Fried Fish

Amritsari Fish is a popular Punjabi-style fried fish dish known for its crisp coating and bold blend of spices. Fish pieces are marinated with yogurt, lemon and aromatic spices before being coated in gram flour and fried until golden.

It makes a delicious starter or evening snack.

Ingredients

- 500 g boneless fish fillets, cut into pieces

- ½ cup gram flour (besan)

- 2 tablespoons rice flour

- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon ajwain

- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder

- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- ½ teaspoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

- 1 tablespoon chopped coriander

- Water, as needed

- Oil, for frying

Method

1. Marinate the Fish

Place the fish pieces in a bowl.

Add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, ajwain and salt.

Mix gently so the fish is evenly coated.

Cover and marinate for 30–45 minutes.

2. Prepare the Coating

Add gram flour and rice flour to the marinated fish.

Mix well to create a thick coating around each piece.

If necessary, add a small amount of water.

3. Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

The oil should be hot enough for the coating to sizzle immediately when a small piece is added.

4. Fry the Fish

Carefully place the coated fish pieces into the hot oil.

Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp.

Turn occasionally so they cook evenly.

Remove and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve

Serve the crispy fish immediately with lemon wedges and fresh coriander.

Serving Suggestions

Amritsari Fish goes well with:

- Mint chutney

- Tamarind chutney

- Lemon wedges

- Sliced onions

- Green chillies

- Masala chai

Tips

- Choose firm fish that holds its shape during frying.

- Don't overcrowd the pan.

- Keep the oil at medium heat so the coating becomes crisp without burning.

- Rice flour helps create a crispier exterior.

- Serve immediately for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Amritsari Fish is a flavorful Punjabi snack with a crunchy exterior and tender fish inside.

The combination of gram flour, spices, lemon and ajwain gives this dish its distinctive North Indian character.