This typical Kerala side dish is easy to cook and combines well with rice. For this preparation, you will need any small fish such as anchovies or sardines. Clean the fish. If sardines are used, cut each fish into two pieces.

You will also need the following:
Shredded coconut - two cups  
Ginger - 2 inches
Garlic - about 12 cloves  
Green chillies - 4 or 5
Curry leaves - a few
Turmeric powder - ½ tsp
Fenugreek powder  - ½ tsp
Salt - to taste
Tamarind (cocum) - 3 or 4 pieces
Coconut oil - 1 tbsp

Mix together all the ingredients, except the fish. When they are well mixed, add the fish and mix again gently. Then add one cup of water. Cover and cook till the fish are done and the water dries up on a low flame.