Meen Murringakka Curry is a classic Kerala dish that beautifully combines the flavours of sardines and drumsticks with a rich, coconut-based gravy. This curry recipe is celebrated for its unique spices and tangy tamarind blend. If you enjoy dishes like Fish Moilee or Keralan Prawn Curry, you’ll love the depth of flavour and the heartiness of Meen Murringakka Curry. Perfect for a comforting meal, this curry pairs well with steamed rice or appam.
About the Recipe
Meen Murringakka Curry captures the essence of Kerala’s coastal cuisine. The combination of fresh sardines and drumsticks creates a harmony of flavours, enhanced by coconut and tamarind-based gravy. Aromatic spices like fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, and curry leaves add depth and complexity to the dish. This recipe not only offers a taste of tradition but also provides insights into Kerala’s culinary practices.Â
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love Meen Murringakka Curry for its authentic taste and straightforward preparation. The sardines marinated in turmeric and salt bring a delightful flavour, while the drumsticks add a unique texture. The coconut-based gravy, enriched with tamarind and spices, creates a perfect balance of tanginess and heat. This delicious curry evokes the warm, comforting feeling of home-cooked meals. It’s a great way to explore Keralan cuisine and impress your family and friends with a hearty, flavorful dish.
Meen Murringakka Curry
Cooking Tips
- Marinate the sardines for a few hours to enhance their flavour.
- Use fresh coconut if possible for a richer taste.
- Adjust the spice level according to your preference by modifying the amount of chilli powder and green chillies.
- Cook the drumsticks until tender to ensure they absorb the flavours of the curry.
Cultural Context
Meen Murringakka Curry is a beloved dish in Kerala, often prepared during family gatherings and festive occasions. It reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage, where seafood plays a vital role. This curry is a testament to Kerala’s traditional cooking methods, incorporating locally sourced ingredients like fresh coconut and tamarind.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Meen Murringakka Curry serves four people and takes about 40 minutes of active cooking time, totalling 1 hour. Serve it hot with steamed rice, appam, or dosa. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Similar Recipes
- Fish Moilee
- Keralan Prawn Curry
- Malabar Fish Curry
Nutrient Benefits
Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are suitable for heart health. Coconut provides healthy fats and adds a creamy texture to the curry. Drumsticks are a good source of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall wellness.
Meen Murringakka Curry
Ingredients
- 3 Sardines
- Turmeric Powder (As required)
- 1 Coconut (grated)
- 2 tsp Garlic (chopped)
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 1 Tamarind (small ball)
- 2 tbsp Coconut Oil
- Fenugreek Seeds (As per taste)
- 1 Onion (sliced)
- 1 tsp Ginger (chopped)
- 2 Green Chilies (sliced)
- 5 to 6 Curry Leaves
- 1 cup Water
- 6 pieces Drumsticks
- Salt (As per taste)
For Tempering:
- 1 tsp Coconut Oil
- 5 Shallots
- 1 Red Chili (whole)
- Mustard Seeds (A few)
Instructions
- Marinate the sardines in salt and turmeric powder for a few hours.
- Make a smooth paste of grated coconut, chilli powder, chopped garlic, and tamarind pulp.
- Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a pan and crackle the fenugreek seeds.
- Add sliced onions, chopped ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves. Cook until golden brown.
- Add the masala paste, water, and drumsticks. Cook until drumsticks are tender. Add salt to taste.
- Add the marinated sardines and cook on high heat for 5 minutes, then simmer on low for another 5 minutes.
- Heat 1 tsp coconut oil, add mustard seeds, shallots, and whole red chilli, and cook for 5 minutes. Then, pour this tempering over the prepared fish curry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make Meen Murringakka Curry less spicy?
Meen Murringakka Curry can be made less spicy by reducing the chilli powder and green chillies used in the recipe. Adding more coconut milk to mellow the spice level makes the curry creamier and milder. If you find the tamarind too tangy, you can also reduce its quantity. These adjustments will help you enjoy a milder version of this flavorful dish without compromising its delicious taste.
Can I use other fish instead of sardines for this curry?
Yes, you can substitute sardines with other types of fish in Meen Murringakka Curry. Fish like mackerel, kingfish, or pomfret work well in this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the fish you use, so adjust accordingly. Ensure that the fish is fresh to maintain the authentic taste of the curry. Experimenting with different fish varieties can provide new flavours and textures, adding versatility to your cooking.
What can I serve with Meen Murringakka Curry?
Meen Murringakka Curry pairs beautifully with steamed rice, appam, or dosa. These traditional accompaniments help soak the flavorful gravy, enhancing your dining experience. You can also serve it with chapati or paratha for a different texture. Adding a simple side salad or some pickles can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy curry. This versatility makes it a perfect dish for various meals and occasions.
How do I store leftover Meen Murringakka Curry?
To store leftover Meen Murringakka Curry:
- Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish. You may need to add a water or coconut milk splash to maintain the curry’s consistency.
Proper storage and reheating ensure the flavours remain intact and the dish stays delicious.
What are the health benefits of Meen Murringakka Curry?
Meen Murringakka Curry is nutritious and offers several health benefits. Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. Coconut provides healthy fats that boost energy and support metabolism. Drumsticks are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and potassium, promoting overall health. This curry is a wholesome, flavorful way to incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet.
