Chepala Vepudu

Chepala Vepudu

Chepala Vepudu

Andhra fish fry — fish marinated in red chilli, turmeric, and rice flour, then pan-fried or shallow-fried to a crispy, spiced crust. A staple on coastal Andhra tables.

Cuisines

Andhra

Best for

Lunch Dinner

Recipe

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Total: 40 min 2-3 servings

Ingredients

500 grams fresh fish (preferably Rohu or Catla)
1 tablespoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons oil
1 sprig curry leaves
salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1 Clean the fish and cut it into medium-sized pieces.
  2. 2 In a bowl, mix red chili powder, turmeric powder, ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
  3. 3 Apply the marinade to the fish pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  4. 4 Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  5. 5 Add curry leaves to the hot oil and let them splutter.
  6. 6 Carefully place the marinated fish pieces in the pan.
  7. 7 Fry the fish on medium heat until they are golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally.
  8. 8 Remove the fried fish from the pan and drain excess oil on paper towels.
  9. 9 Serve hot with rice or as a side dish.

Tips

For a spicier version, add finely chopped green chilies to the marinade.