The fragrant aroma of fresh turmeric seeps into every bite of crispy fried flying fish, blending perfectly with the fish’s natural sweetness to create a uniquely satisfying dish.
To prepare this flavorful dish, the fish is first cleaned, descaled, and gutted, with the bones carefully removed along the spine while keeping the head and tail intact for an appealing presentation. Shallots, garlic, and fresh turmeric are finely ground and mixed with salt, sugar, and a touch of fish sauce to create a well-balanced marinade.
The fish is then coated evenly with the spice mixture, ensuring that the flavors deeply penetrate the flesh. After marinating for about 30 minutes, it is gently folded back into shape and secured with banana leaves or spring onion stalks to keep it intact during cooking.
Next, the fish is fried in hot oil over medium heat, carefully turned until it achieves a golden, crispy texture. Maintaining the right temperature ensures a crunchy exterior while preserving the fish’s tender, juicy interior, all infused with the warm, earthy scent of turmeric.
The final dish is an irresistible combination of crispiness, tenderness, and rich flavors—perfectly complementing the fish’s natural sweetness and making it a true culinary delight.
