Authentic Chettinad Nethili Karuvadu Thokku Recipe

40 minutes

1333 reads

4.25 from 4 votes

About Authentic Chettinad Nethili Karuvadu Thokku Recipe

Experience the bold flavors of South India with this authentic Chettinad Nethili Karuvadu Thokku recipe. This flavorful dry anchovy relish is a protein-packed delight, perfect for a hearty and wholesome meal. The rich combination of sautéed onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Chettinad.
Dried anchovies (nethili karuvadu) form the base of this traditional dish, offering a unique savory depth. The careful balance of spices, including red chili powder and coriander, provides a warm and comforting kick. Serve this thokku with steaming hot rice for an unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an extraordinary dish. Easy to follow and perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks, it's a must-try for anyone seeking authentic South Indian cuisine and a quick, delicious weeknight meal.
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Stop Thinking About What to Cook Every Day

Weight loss, PCOS, and Healthy Eating, all planned out for you. Just follow the plan and cook. From ₹399.

Explore Meal Plans

Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total40 minutes
Calories213 kcal
Serves3
Served AsLunch
Recipe TasteSourSpicyTangy

Ingredients
 

Dry Fish Preparation

  • 15-20 Nethili Karuvadu dried anchovies, dry fish; ensure they are good quality

Aromatics & Spices

Tempering & Other Ingredients

Start Focussed Cooking Mode →

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dried Anchovies

  • Soak the dried anchovies in water for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly 2-3 times. Remove the heads from each fish and rinse again. Set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

  • Heat oil in a kadai (wok or pan). Once hot, add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add curry leaves and dried red chilies. Sauté for a minute.
  • Add finely chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

Cook Tomatoes and Spices

  • Add finely chopped tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt. Cook covered for 5 minutes, or until tomatoes soften and reach a slightly pulpy consistency.
  • Add red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin seeds. Stir well for 1 minute.

Simmer with Anchovies

  • Add 1/4 cup of water and bring to a simmer. Add the prepared dried anchovies.
  • Cook covered over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish and Serve

  • Once the thokku reaches a thick, slightly oily consistency, stir in chopped coriander leaves. Remove from heat.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Perfect Nethili Karuvadu Thokku

  • For a richer flavor, use sesame oil instead of refined oil.
  • Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your preferred spice level.
  • If the thokku is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Allow the thokku to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen over time.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.25 from 4 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 213kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 4gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 424mgPotassium: 516mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1444IUVitamin C: 163mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 3mg

Ranjani Raj
Ranjani Raj
Articles: 29
30-Day Indian Vegetarian Weight Loss Meal Plan

Guest Post / Advertise on Plattershare

Writers, food bloggers & brands - collaborate with us

See Details

4 Comments

4.25 from 4 votes

Leave a Reply