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Durban Masala Fried Fish

Make authentic Durban Masala Fried Fish with this foolproof recipe. Packed with rich traditional flavor, step-by-step photos, and cooking tips by Denisiya on EatMee Recipes.

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By DenisiyaPublished on August 2, 2019
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Durban Masala Fried Fish
⏱️
Prep Time15 mins
🍳
Cook Time6 mins
⌛
Total Time21 mins
🍽️
ServingsServes 4
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This Indian Food Recipe Serves 2-4

This Durban Masala Fried Fish is a Durban classic & is so quick & easy to prepare. South Africa has a lot of Indian influence so this masala fried fish originated in the city of Durban.

There are many variations to this recipe whereby spices may be added or omitted. This dish tastes even better if marinated & left overnight or a few hours to absorb all the flavours. But, if you’re hungry & can’t wait for such long periods of time then no stress, you can simply marinate it & fry it immediately.

Any firm white fish will do for this recipe. In Durban, we tend to use Barracuda or Shad but this choice is of availability.

🥗

Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Serves 4
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👩‍🍳

Step-by-Step Instructions

14 Steps
  1. Step 1

    Rinse the fish under cold running water.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    For this recipe I have used Shad.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Scale fish & make a cut along the bottom of the fish. Remove the intestines & entrails.

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Cut fish into pieces. I have removed the head & tails of the fish but if you enjoy those parts then you may keep them intact.

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    Place the pieces of fish into a bowl.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    Add in the spices – salt, ground black pepper, chilli powder, jeera (cumin) powder, dhania (coriander) powder & red chilli flakes. Then add in the ginger & garlic paste. Squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl, discarding of the seeds. Pour in 1 tablespoon of oil.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    Mix well & allow to marinate for an hour or more. If you are in a hurry then skip the marinating process & continue with the next step.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated fish into the oil.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Allow the fish to fry for about 3 minutes on medium-high heat.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Thereafter, carefully turn the fish over & allow the other side to fry for about 3 minutes.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    After frying the fish, remove from the hot oil & set onto a plate.

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    Plate your Durban Masala Fried Fish & serve whilst hot.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    Goes well as is or sandwiched in buttered bread. My favourite way to enjoy this fish is having it as a side with Yellow Split Pea Dhall & rice.

    Step 13 visual guide
  14. Step 14

    To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for afew minutes.

    Step 14 visual guide
Video Tutorial

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Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Durban Masala Fried Fish

Can I adjust the spice and chilli levels in Durban Masala Fried Fish?

Absolutely! You can easily tailor the heat by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your family’s palate without compromising the authentic flavor profile.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Durban Masala Fried Fish in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers for best flavor?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

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