❌

Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Before yesterdayMain stream

Sura Puttu Recipe | Fish Puttu Recipe

20 November 2025 at 18:54

Sura Puttu is a traditional South Indian side dish prepared by steaming shark fish & tempering it with onion & spices. The texture turns soft and flaky, and the spices added are very minimal so the fish taste stays as it is. It is commonly made in Tamil Nadu homes and served along with rice, rasam or even simple curd rice. Sura Puttu increases the lactation, very healthy and could be relished as a wholesome dish or as a side dish in lunch meal.

sura puttu served

This is also known as a healthy dish in many homes, and people say it helps for good strength and even for new mothers for lactation. Since the fish is cooked soft and then mixed with light tempering, it becomes easy to digest too. It is a good option for days when you want a home style fish dish without too much spice.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

About Sura Puttu

Sura Puttu is a very popular mild savoury dish made by steaming shark fish & tempering it with onion & spices. Sura Puttu increases the lactation, very healthy and could be relished as a wholesome dish or as a side dish in lunch meal It is quite filling also, and you can make it when you want something light but still tasty for lunch.

This recipe has a nice aromatic flavor from onion, garlic and a bit of jeera powder that gives great flavor. The masala doesn't overpower the fish, so it stays light and mild mostly. You can add more coconut or even skip it, and both ways it comes out quite good. The sura fish has a soft meat, so it fits well for this dish.

You can try small variations like using pepper instead of chilli powder or adding few more small onions for a slightly sweeter taste. The fish can be cooked in a steamer or even boiled with little turmeric and salt also. Extra curry leaves gives a stronger aroma if you like that.

I usually make this when I get fresh sura fish from the market because it cooks fast and doesn't need much cleaning work also. Even kids and elders can eat this as you need not worry about biting into bones, also this is not at all spicy.

I had this after mittus delivery and even after gugus delivery too. Amma made this Sura Puttu often as it is said to increase lactation.

sura puttu served

Sura Puttu Ingredients

  • Sura fish - I used sura fish as it cooks soft and flakes easily. You can also use smaller pieces if whole fish is not available.
  • Onion - I have used finely chopped onion as it gives mild sweetness and makes the puttu soft when mixed. You can use small onion also.
  • Garlic - I have added crushed garlic because it adds strong flavor and blends well with fish. You can increase if you like more.
  • Coconut - I have used little coconut for giving slight richness and gentle taste. You can skip if you don't want it.
  • Coriander leaves - I have added chopped coriander for freshness at the end. You can skip if you don't prefer.
  • Oil - I have used oil for tempering and roasting everything. You can use coconut oil also.
  • Turmeric, Red Chili & Jeera powder - I add turmeric powder for the color and mild flavor. I use red chili powder for the spice and just adjust it. I added roasted jeera powder for that warm aroma.
  • Tempering - I have used mustard seeds for tempering as it adds light flavor when spluttered. I have added curry leaves for aroma and soft herbal taste. I have used chopped green chilli to give slow heat and flavor while sautΓ©ing.

Similar Recipes

How to make Sura Puttu Step by Step

1.Rinse the fish well and clean it. Then add in salt turmeric powder and give it a rinse. Now cook in a open kadai with enough water, a pinch of turmeric powder and required salt. You can see the color and texture change.

how to make sura puttu step1

2.Once its cooked, peel off the skin and discard it, discard the center bone too, Now shred the cooked flesh and set aside. In a kadai - heat oil add mustard seeds let it splutter, then add curry leaves and green chilies saute for a minute.

how to make sura puttu step2

3.Then add garlic and onion, sautΓ© till slightly golden then add cooked fish.

how to make sura puttu step3

4.Add turmeric powder, red chili powder and keep sautΓ©ing in low flame until there is no moisture.

how to make sura puttu step4

5.Once you see the fish has blended well with the masalas and when it becomes dry, add coconut and roasted jeera powder.

how to make sura puttu step5

6.Keep sauteing for few more minutes until its slightly browned. Garnish with coriander leaves, give a quick toss and switch off.

how to make sura puttu step6

Serve with rice.

sura puttu served

Expert Tips

  • Fresh Jeera- I usually crush jeera fresh because it gives better aroma and blends nicely in the puttu.
  • Shredding - I usually make sure the fish is cooked soft so it shreds without any hard pieces.
  • Slow roasting - I have noticed the taste comes better when you roast in medium low flame. It browns slowly.
  • Onion & garlic - I usually add little extra because it brings more flavor and soft texture.
  • Removing bones - I always check twice for small bones after shredding so it is safe to eat.

Serving and Storage

Serve this with hot rice, rasam, sambar or even curd rice for a simple easy meal. It also goes well as a side for lemon rice or tomato rice too. Store any leftover fish puttu in the fridge and warm it little before serving so it taste fresh again. It stays good for about a day if you keep it closed properly..

FAQS

1.Can I use any other fish instead of sura?

You can try with soft boneless fish but the texture may change a bit.

2.Can I reduce onion?

Yes you can, but onion gives good flavor so I usually keep enough.

3.Can I skip coconut?

Yes you can skip it, the dish will still taste fine without it.

4.Does it become too dry?

If it feels dry you can add little more oil or small amount of onion.

5.Can I make this ahead?

You can cook the fish earlier and finish the tempering part before serving.

sura puttu served

If you have any more questions about this Sura Puttu RecipeΒ do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram,Β Facebook,Β PinterestΒ ,YoutubeΒ andΒ TwitterΒ .

Tried this Sura Puttu Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

πŸ“– Recipe Card

30672857670 8e5581bc87 o
Print

Sura Puttu Recipe | Fish Puttu Recipe

Sura Puttu is a traditional South Indian side dish prepared by steaming shark fish & tempering it with onion & spices. The texture turns soft and flaky, and the spices added are very minimal so the fish taste stays as it is. It is commonly made in Tamil Nadu homes and served along with rice, rasam or even simple curd rice. Sura Puttu increases the lactation, very healthy and could be relished as a wholesome dish or as a side dish in lunch meal.
Course Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine Indian
Keyword curry, curry recipes, fish recipes, Kerala Meal Sidedish, non veg recipes, poriyal, poriyal recipes, puttu recipes, recipes, Side Dish, snack recipes, stir fry recipes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 191kcal
Author Sharmilee J

Ingredients

To temper:

  • 2 teaspoon oil
  • Β½ teaspoon mustard seeds
  • few curry leaves
  • 1 no green chilli finely chopped

Instructions

  • Rinse the fish well and clean it. Then add in salt turmeric powder and give it a rinse.
  • Now cook in a open kadai with enough water, a pinch of turmeric powder and required salt. You can see the color and texture change.
  • Once its cooked, peel off the skin and discard it, discard the center bone too, Now shred the cooked flesh and set aside.
  • In a kadai - heat oil add mustard seeds let it splutter, then add curry leaves and green chillies saute for a minute.
  • Then add garlic and onion, saute till slightly golden then add cooked fish.
  • Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder and keep sauteing in low flame until there is no moisture.
  • Once you see the fish has blended well with the masalas and when it becomes dry, add coconut and roasted jeera powder.
  • Keep sauteing for few more mins until its slightly browned.
  • Garnish with coriander leaves, give a quick toss and switch off.
  • Serve Sura Puttu with rice.

Notes

  • Fresh Jeera- I usually crush jeera fresh because it gives better aroma and blends nicely in the puttu.
  • Shredding - I usually make sure the fish is cooked soft so it shreds without any hard pieces.
  • Slow roasting - I have noticed the taste comes better when you roast in medium low flame. It browns slowly.
  • Onion & garlic - I usually add little extra because it brings more flavor and soft texture.
  • Removing bones - I always check twice for small bones after shredding so it is safe to eat.

Nutrition

Serving: 125g | Calories: 191kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 107mg | Potassium: 651mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 407IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Sura Puttu Recipe | Fish Puttu Recipe appeared first on Sharmis Passions.

Karuvadu Thokku | Dry Fish Curry

7 October 2025 at 19:05

Karuvadu Thokku is one of those traditional side dishes that bring out strong homely flavor. It is a spiced and flavorful curry made with dry fish cooked along with onion, tomato and few everyday spices. The taste is slightly spicy, flavorful and very satisfying when had with hot rice or soft idli or dosa.

karuvadu thoku served with rice

I make Karuvadu Thokku often when we get good quality dry fish from market. The aroma while cooking is so unique and earthy, you can easily tell something special is happening in kitchen. It goes well for both lunch and dinner, and if you like bold strong flavors, this is a must try dish.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

About Karuvadu Thokku

Karuvadu Thokku is a popular South Indian side dish made using dry fish simmered with onions and tomatoes till it becomes thick like pickle consistency. The mixture of spice and tang from tomato blends so well with the salty dry fish giving a deep taste. The dish has rich masala flavor and a slight smokiness that comes naturally from dried fish.

There are many variations of Karuvadu Thokku depending on region and type of fish used. Some use country tomatoes for more tangy taste while others prefer adding coconut paste or tamarind. You can make it dry and thick or gravy-like based on what you like. Both taste delicious in its own way.

The taste mainly depends on how well the dry fish is soaked and cleaned before cooking. If soaked too long it will lose flavor, if not enough it will be very salty. I used Nei Meen variety for this recipe, but you can make it with any type of dry fish you prefer.

I love Karuvadu amma makes, but I am very specific to the variety of dry fish(karuvadu).I have tasted just nethili and neimeen karuvadu and I love both. The aroma fills kitchen, and it reminds me of weekends when amma used to make this.

I usually make this to a simple meal of rasam and rice. Amma usually makes this karuvadu thokku with rice and sambar which is the best combination, the leftover thokku pairs up well with neeragaram.

karuvadu thoku served with rice

Karuvadu Thokku Ingredients

  • Dry Fish - I have used Nei Meen variety, it gives nice taste and slightly chewy texture. You can use any dry fish you get, but make sure to rinse it well to remove extra salt, this adds better taste.
  • Onion - I added small onions for mild sweetness and balance the salty and spicy taste. You can even use big onion if small ones is not available.
  • Garlic - I used sliced garlic, this add strong aroma and deep flavor which goes very well with dry fish.
  • Tomato - I have used country tomatoes, they add tanginess and makes the thokku thick and saucy. This adds nice juiciness to the dish which I really like.
  • Red Chilli Powder - I add it for spice and color. You can adjust as per your spice level, I keep it mild sometimes.
  • Curry Leaves - I have added curry leaves, this add nice flavor and freshness to the dish, really lifts the taste.
  • Gingelly Oil - I always prefer gingelly oil for this dish as it gives that authentic taste and smell, you can use little more for extra flavor.

Similar Recipes

How to make Karuvadu Thokku Step by Step

1.Peel the skin from small onions,slice them thin, then slice garlic.Heat oil in a kadai - add garlic first saute for 2mins.

how to make karuvadu thokku step1

2.Then add small onion,saute till it turns transparent, then add tomatoes saute till mushy and raw smell leaves.

how to make karuvadu thokku step2

3.Add curry leaves and keep cooking until the entire mixture becomes mushy.Meanwhile rinse dryfish well and keep it soaked in warm water for 10mins.Drain the water.

how to make karuvadu thokku step3

4.Add dry fish along with red chilli powder,saute for 2mins then add water till immersing level.

how to make karuvadu thokku step4

5.Cook covered for 5mins.Press the dryfish with a laddle to check if its cooked.If its soft then its cooked.

how to make karuvadu thokku step5

6.Amma suggested to remove the bone and discard at this stage so did as per her instruction though this step is optional.Keep cooking in medium flame.

how to make karuvadu thokku step6

7.Cook until all the moisture is absorbed fully and the mixture becomes like a thokku.

how to make karuvadu thokku step7

Serve with phulka or pulao.

Expert TipsΒ Β Β 

  • Soaking - I usually soak the karuvadu for 10 minutes in warm water to soften and remove excess salt. Do not soak too long else it will loose taste.
  • Cooking time - Keep the flame in medium and let it cook slow. This helps all the flavors blend nicely and gives thick consistency.
  • Oil choice - Always use gingelly oil for traditional flavor. It also helps reduce strong smell of dry fish.
  • Salt balance - Taste the masala before adding more salt, as dry fish already has enough in it.
  • Consistency - You can make it dry like pickle or a bit gravy style, both ways it taste good. I prefer little thick so it stays longer.

Serving and Storage

Serve this with hot steamed rice, rasam rice or even soft idlis. It also goes well with dosa and kal dosa. The flavor gets even better after few hours, so you can make ahead and keep for next meal too.

Store leftover in a clean dry container and refrigerate, stays good for 2 days. Reheat slightly before serving.

FAQS

1.Can I make this with fresh fish instead of dry fish?

No, this recipe is meant for dry fish. Fresh fish will break and not give same flavor.

2.How to reduce the smell of dry fish?

Rinse well in warm water and use gingelly oil while cooking, it helps reduce strong smell.

3.Can I add coconut to this thokku?

You can add little ground coconut paste for creamy texture, but it will change the taste slightly.

4.Is this very spicy?

It is moderately spicy, you can reduce red chili powder if making for kids or elderly.

5.Can I store this for long time?

If you make it dry type and store in airtight jar, it stays good for 2-3 days in fridge.

karuvadu thoku served with rice

If you have any more questions about this Karuvadu Thokku RecipeΒ do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram,Β Facebook,Β PinterestΒ ,YoutubeΒ andΒ TwitterΒ .

Tried thisΒ Karuvadu Thokku Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

πŸ“– Recipe Card

27991454364 83971ae93c o
Print

Karuvadu Thokku Recipe | Dry Fish Curry Recipe

Karuvadu Thokku is one of those traditional side dishes that bring out strong homely flavor. It is a spiced and flavorful curry made with dry fish cooked along with onion, tomato and few everyday spices. The taste is slightly spicy, flavorful and very satisfying when had with hot rice or soft idli or dosa.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Indian
Keyword 30 mins recipes, curry, curry recipes, fish recipes, garlic recipes, lunch recipes, meals, non veg recipes, Side Dish, stir fry recipes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 2 people
Calories 135kcal
Author Sharmilee J

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces nei meen karuvadu
  • Β½ cup small onion sliced
  • β…› cup garlic sliced
  • 3 small sized tomato
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • a small sprig curry leaves
  • 1 tablespoon gingelly oil
  • ΒΎ cup water

Instructions

  • Peel the skin from small onions, slice them thin, then slice garlic.
  • Heat oil in a kadai - add garlic first sautΓ© for 2 minutes.
  • Then add small onion, sautΓ© till it turns transparent, then add tomatoes sautΓ© till mushy and raw smell leaves.
  • Add curry leaves and keep cooking until the entire mixture becomes mushy.
  • Meanwhile rinse dry fish well and keep it soaked in warm water for 10 minutes. Drain the water.
  • Add dry fish along with red chili powder, sautΓ© for 2 minutes then add water till immersing level.
  • Cook covered for 5 minutes. Press the dry fish with a ladle to check if its cooked. If its soft then its cooked.
  • Amma suggested to remove the bone and discard at this stage so did as per her instruction though this step is optional. Keep cooking in medium flame.
  • Cook until all the moisture is absorbed fully and the mixture becomes like a thokku.
  • Serve Karuvadu Thokku with phulka or pulao.

Notes

  • Soaking - I usually soak the karuvadu for 10 minutes in warm water to soften and remove excess salt. Do not soak too long else it will loose taste.
  • Cooking time - Keep the flame in medium and let it cook slow. This helps all the flavors blend nicely and gives thick consistency.
  • Oil choice - Always use gingelly oil for traditional flavor. It also helps reduce strong smell of dry fish.
  • Salt balance - Taste the masala before adding more salt, as dry fish already has enough in it.
  • Consistency - You can make it dry like pickle or a bit gravy style, both ways it taste good. I prefer little thick so it stays longer.

Nutrition

Serving: 100g | Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 34mg | Potassium: 580mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1835IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Karuvadu Thokku | Dry Fish Curry appeared first on Sharmis Passions.

❌
❌