Nethili Karuvadu Kuzhambu

Preparation

Rinse the nethili in warm water; no soaking required given its small size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1Heat oil, splutter mustard seeds, add curry leaves and onion; sauté till translucent.
2. 2Add tomatoes, cook till soft, then stir in chilli, turmeric, and coriander powder.
3. 3Add tamarind water and 1 more cup of water; bring to a boil, then simmer 8–10 minutes.
4. 4Add the nethili, simmer another 8–10 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
5. 5Taste and adjust salt carefully before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Tastes better the next day, once the flavors settle.
• Simmer, don't boil hard, once the fish goes in — it can break apart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding fish too early, which turns it mushy.
• Under-cooking the raw tamarind smell out.
• Over-salting before tasting.

Serving Suggestions

Hot rice, ideally with a simple vegetable side.