Meen Puttu Recipe (Fish Puttu)

The well-known and popular fish recipe, Meen Puttu, also called Fish Puttu, Spicy Flaked Fish, or Indian Scrambled Fish. Whichever name you use, it all points to golden flaked fish stir-fried with spices and curry leaves. 

Soft and tender, with the aroma of curry leaves and spices, it’s enhanced by crunchy, nutty fresh coconut and a touch of spiciness.

A classic heritage dish, handed down through generations of South Indian cooks, especially in Kerala. It’s also popular as a Sri Lankan recipe (COLOMBO SRI LANKA). In Malaysia, though not made regularly at home, it’s often eagerly anticipated in Indian restaurants. 

But nothing compares to homemade Meen Puttu, with that special touch of cooking with love (KOCHI KERALA).

The dish may look challenging, but it’s actually easy to make. There are three main steps: first, simmer the fish, or some prefer steaming it with turmeric powder; second, chop or slice the necessary ingredients; and third, stir-fry everything quickly to keep the fish moist while seasoning it perfectly.

The best pairing for Fish Puttu is a gravy dish and a simple stir-fry.

Ingredients for Fish Puttu

For the Fish

A few pieces of sura meen (baby shark) 

2 tsp turmeric powder

Water as needed

 

Method

Simmer fish with turmeric powder and water.

Once fish is cooked,  remove fish and cool down. 

Flake the fish, add the remaining 1 tsp turmeric powder and mix.

Set aside.

Ingredients for Stir-Frying

3 tbsp grated coconut

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp black mustard seeds

Fresh chilies  - sliced thinly

5 shallots - sliced thinly

1/2 inch ginger - chopped

Some curry leaves

Combine these ingredients in a bowl and set aside.

Additional Ingredients

1/2 tbsp lime juice

2 tbsp oil

Salt to taste

 

How to Make Fish/Meen Puttu

Heat oil and add combined stir frying ingredients.

Stir in quickly. 

Add flaked fish, lime juice, and salt.

Stir a couple of times over high heat without burning.

Dish out.