Among the many treasures of North Indian cuisine, amritsari fish holds a special place for its incredible crunch, bold spices, and melt-in-the-mouth texture. At Saagar in Phuket, this iconic Punjabi delicacy has become a favorite for guests who love deep, comforting flavors and perfectly spiced seafood.
Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, this dish captures the soul of the legendary street food culture of Amritsar.
In this article, we explore what makes this dish unique, the traditional preparation style, and how this wonderful amritsari fish recipe can be recreated at home.
A Punjabi Delight Loved Across India
Originating from the bustling streets near the Golden Temple, amritsari fish is traditionally prepared using freshwater fish coated in a gram-flour batter, infused with spices, and fried to crisp perfection. It is often served with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and sliced onions for a refreshing balance. Over the decades, it has evolved into various formats like amritsari fish fry, amritsari fish tikka, and even amritsari fish curry in some regions.
At Saagar, we prepare this dish using fresh seafood available in Phuket, ensuring authentic flavors without compromising on quality.
Ingredients Used in a Traditional Amritsari Fish Recipe
To prepare the dish authentically, a few key ingredients are essential:
- Fresh fish fillets (boneless works best)
- Gram flour (besan)
- Rice flour for added crispiness
- Kashmiri red chilli powder
- Carom seeds (ajwain)
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Turmeric
- Lemon juice
- Salt and mild spices
- Oil for deep frying
These ingredients come together to create the signature texture and spice blend that the city of Amritsar is known for.
Step-by-Step Method to Make Amritsari Fish
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and chilli powder. Coat the fish gently and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This step ensures the flavor penetrates well.
2. Create the Batter
Add gram flour, a little rice flour, ajwain, and more mild spices. Mix in small quantities of water to form a thick batter that adheres smoothly to the fish.
3. Coat and Fry
Heat oil in a deep pan. Dip each marinated piece into the batter and fry on medium heat until the outer layer becomes crispy and golden.
4. Serve Fresh and Hot
Once done, place the fried pieces on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and onion rings.
The result is a plate of crunchy, aromatic fish that stays true to the taste of the original amritsari fish fry prepared in Punjab.
Why Amritsari Fish is Loved at Saagar, Phuket
Our diners adore this dish for many reasons:
- Perfect Crunch: The coating remains crisp even after a few minutes of serving.
- Balanced Spices: It is flavorful without being overpowering.
- Freshness: Using high-quality seafood available in Phuket elevates the dish.
- Versatility: It pairs well with naan, rice, or even works as a starter.
Whether you’re craving an Indian comfort snack or something uniquely flavorful, this Punjabi seafood dish never disappoints.
Variations of Amritsari Fish
While the classic method is the most popular, many variations exist today:
1. Amritsari Fish Tikka
Marinated pieces are grilled instead of fried, making it a lighter option with a smoky aroma.
2. Amritsari Fish Curry
The crispy fried pieces are simmered in a tangy curry base, offering a fusion of textures.
3. Street-Style Amritsari Fish
Vendors often dust the fish with chaat masala and serve it piping hot with green chutney.
These versions have inspired chefs across India as well as global Indian kitchens, including ours.
Tips for Making the Perfect Amritsari Fish at Home
- Use boneless fillets for best results.
- Keep the batter thick to avoid it dripping off.
- Add ajwain for that authentic Punjabi flavor.
- Do not fry on very high heat; medium heat ensures even cooking.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
With these tips, you can bring the taste of Amritsar to your kitchen with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How to make amritsari fish fry?
Marinate the fish with spices, prepare a gram-flour batter, coat the pieces, and fry until golden and crisp.
2. How to make amritsari fish?
The authentic preparation involves deep-frying fish coated in a spiced batter made of besan, ajwain, and mild seasonings.
3. How to make fish amritsari style?
Use fresh fillets, a thick batter, and medium-hot oil. This gives the distinct Punjabi taste and crunch.
4. Where to eat authentic amritsari fish in Amritsar?
The dish is famous near the Golden Temple area, but at Saagar in Phuket, we aim to bring the same experience to our guests.
5. How to make amritsari fish curry?
Prepare the fried fish first, then simmer it in a creamy, tangy curry base to create a flavorful meal.