Ribbon Dry Fish (Valai Karuvadu) – A Flavorful Coastal Delight
Ribbon Dry Fish, also known as Valai Karuvadu, is a traditional dried seafood delicacy cherished for its rich umami flavor and long shelf life. Made from high-quality ribbon fish, it is carefully cleaned, salted, and sun-dried to preserve its natural taste and nutrients. This dried fish is widely used in South Indian, Sri Lankan, and coastal cuisines, adding depth and authenticity to various dishes.
Cooking with Ribbon Dry Fish (Valai Karuvadu)
Preparation:
Rinse the dried fish in warm water to remove excess salt and impurities.
Soak for a few minutes if needed to soften before cooking.
Chop into smaller pieces for easy use in recipes.
How to Prepare and Cook Ribbon Dry Fish (Valai Karuvadu)
Step 1: Cleaning the Dried Fish
Rinse Thoroughly – Wash the dried fish in warm water 2-3 times to remove excess salt and surface impurities.
Soaking (Optional) – If the fish is too salty, soak it in warm water for 10-15 minutes to reduce the saltiness.
Remove Unwanted Parts – Cut off the head and tail if desired, and chop into smaller pieces for cooking.
Step 2: Cooking Methods
1. Valai Karuvadu Fry (Crispy Dry Fish Fry)
? Ingredients:
100g Ribbon Dry Fish
1 tsp Chili Powder
½ tsp Turmeric Powder
1 tsp Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Oil
Curry Leaves (for garnish)
? Method:
Heat oil in a pan and shallow-fry the cleaned dry fish until crispy.
Add chili powder, turmeric, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Fry for a few more minutes and garnish with curry leaves. Serve hot!
2. Valai Karuvadu Kuzhambu (Dry Fish Curry)
? Ingredients:
100g Ribbon Dry Fish
1 Onion (chopped)
2 Tomatoes (chopped)
1 tbsp Tamarind Paste
1 tsp Chili Powder
½ tsp Turmeric Powder
1 tsp Coriander Powder
1 tbsp Oil
1 tsp Mustard Seeds
Few Curry Leaves
? Method:
Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and onions. Sauté until golden brown.
Add tomatoes, chili powder, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook until soft.
Pour in tamarind paste and some water, then add the cleaned dried fish.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors blend well. Serve with steamed rice.
3. Karuvadu Thokku (Spicy Dry Fish Masala)
? Ingredients:
100g Ribbon Dry Fish
2 Onions (chopped)
2 Tomatoes (chopped)
1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
1 tsp Chili Powder
½ tsp Garam Masala
1 tbsp Oil
Few Curry Leaves
? Method:
Heat oil, add curry leaves, onions, and sauté until soft.
Add ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until oil separates.
Add the cleaned fish, mix well, and cook for 5-7 minutes.
Serve hot with rice or roti.