Fish Kalia

Wash fish thoroughly. Rub one teaspoon each of salt and turmeric powder all over the pieces.

Grind to a fine paste the coriander and cumin seeds, red chili and ginger, adding little water in an electric grinder.

Heat 1/2 cup oil and fry the fish pieces. Ensure that the oil is very hot before adding fish, otherwise fish pieces can stick. Turn each piece and fry until brown. Remove the fish pieces.

In the same oil, add cumin seeds and bay leaf and when splutters add finely chopped onion and garlic and fry to light brown. Add the ground spices and green chili and cook for three minutes. Add two tablespoons of yogurt/curd and fry until it starts to stick to the pan. Stir occasionally.

Add the fish pieces and turn over. Add three cups of water and bring to boil. Add salt and sugar and check for seasoning. Reduce heat and simmer for at least ten minutes until gravy becomes thick.