Mathi peera pattichatu - Sardines with coconut gratings

·    Mathi Peera pattichathu or Sardines cooked with coconut gratings is a popular side dish of the people of Kerala. The reason why this fish is popular among the common masses is because it is rich in Calcium and the real fact being the taste part. Being a tasty and healthy option, sardines are commonly used in every household in Kerala. This side dish would play a major role in your lunch if you plan to make rice.

As a great fan of Sardines myself, I make it a point to cook different kinds of dishes with it. Mathi Peerapattichathu or Sardines cooked with grated coconut is a really tasty delight for your taste buds if you are lucky enough to get fresh ones right from the market.

I have actually mastered this technique of preparing sardines from my Mom. You can add a dash of vinegar for that extra punch in the dish. Even if you do not add, it would be fine. You will not get that sour taste that actually fits with the fish well. You may try out these two varieties. You can even grind the shallots or onions if you want, or even finely chop the shallots or onions without grinding it with coconut too. If you like that crispy touch of shallots or onions, you may finely chop the onions or shallots to it. If not, simply grind it with the coconut grating.

Here I have used onions and I have finely chopped them. So go ahead, go through the recipe and try out for yourself.

Ingredients

·       Sardines – 8-10

·       Coconut grating- ½ a cup

·       Onions /Shallots – 1 large Onion ( If using Shallots-10 nos)

·       Green chilies – 2 small

·       Ginger Garlic Paste- ½ tsp

·       Red chilly powder – ¾ tsp

·       Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

·       Tamarind Paste – ¼ tsp

·       Vinegar – A dash

·       Salt

·       Coconut Oil

Method

·       In a mixer jar, add coconuts, chilly powder, turmeric powder tamarind paste and grind it for 1 min

·       Before placing the pan on the stove, we need to assemble

·       Take a pan

·       Add Sardines that are cleaned well

·       Add finely chopped onions and green chilies to it

·       Add a dash of vinegar, salt, oil, and finally the coconut mix and curry leaves

·       Mix all the ingredients carefully

·       Add a tsp of coconut oil to it

·       You may now add ¼  cup of water

·       Switch on the stove and place the pan with all the ingredients on the stove

·       Let it get heated

·       Now close the lid and allow it to cook for 10 min

·       After 10-15 min, open the lid and check whether the fish is cooked well.

·       Open the lid and put the stove in full flame if you find any excess liquid

·       Make it dry without burning the dish

·       Switch off flame

·       Serve hot with rice and other curries

·       Enjoy your afternoons with Mathi Peerapattichathu!!