How to Make Delicious Sankara Fish Fry (Red Snapper/Rani Fish Fry) at Home
In West Bengal, seafood plays a big role in everyday meals and festive occasions. Among the many beloved dishes, the sankara fish fry, also known as red snapper fry or rani fish fry, stands out for its crisp texture and bold flavor. This dish is perfect for both quick meals and traditional gatherings.
Let’s take you through a complete step-by-step guide to making this delicious Bengali-style fried fish at home, using sankara fish, also known as chemballi meen in other parts of India.
Why Sankara Fish Fry is a Must-Try
Sankara fish fry is popular not just for its taste but also for how easy and quick it is to make. It combines crispy coating with soft, flaky fish inside, all infused with traditional Indian spices. The red snapper absorbs marinades beautifully, giving you a burst of flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re craving a light fish fry or planning a feast, chemballi fry or rani fish fry is an ideal choice. This dish works well with steamed rice, pulao, or even as a snack with green chutney.
1. Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this simple yet flavorful dish, gather the following:
- 500g Sankara Fish (Red Snapper/Rani Fish): cut into steaks or fillets
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Rice flour or semolina (for coating)
- Mustard oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
2. Step-by-Step Preparation
- Marinate the Fish
In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, turmeric, red chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, and salt. Rub this mixture thoroughly onto the fish pieces. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors seep into the fish.
- Coat the Fish
After marination, lightly coat each piece with rice flour or semolina. This helps create that perfect crispy outer layer.
- Fry the Fish
Heat oil in a pan—use mustard oil for a traditional Bengali flavor or vegetable oil for a more neutral taste. Gently place the fish pieces into the hot oil and fry on medium heat until both sides turn golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Garnish
Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite chutney or salad.
3. Nutritional Benefits of Sankara Fish (Red Snapper)
Sankara fish, or red snapper, offers more than just flavor. It’s a healthy protein source packed with:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: great for heart health
- Vitamin D and calcium: supports bone strength
- Selenium and other minerals: good for immunity and energy
- Lean protein: promotes muscle repair and strength
Including chemballi fish fry in your diet offers a great mix of taste and nutrition.
4. Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Easy and quick to prepare
- Rich in essential nutrients
- Versatile works as a main or side dish
- Loved by both kids and adults
- Cons:
- Fried version may be high in fat
- Requires fresh fish for best results
- Not suitable for those with seafood allergies
For a healthier version, you can try grilling or pan-searing the fish instead of deep frying.
5. A Bengali Culinary Parallel: Macher Bhaja
This dish reminds us of the classic macher bhaja, a traditional fried fish dish enjoyed across Bengali households. Both dishes celebrate the use of fresh fish and minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.
Conclusion
Making sankara fish fry at home is simple, satisfying, and loaded with nutrition. With a crispy outer layer and soft, flavorful fish inside, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you call it rani fish fry, chemballi fry, or red snapper fry, this dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Bengal and coastal India.
Ready to enjoy authentic flavors? Source the best sankara fish from Benfarmm, cook with love, and serve hot—it’s as easy as that.
Where to Find Fresh Sankara Fish Online
The key to a great sankara fish fry lies in the freshness of the fish. Look for vendors that deliver straight from farms. One trusted name is Benfarmm Pvt Ltd., a reliable source for premium-quality fish and meat, sourced directly from farms and delivered to your doorstep in Kolkata.
Their wide range includes red snapper, rani fish, and other seafood essentials ideal for Bengali-style cooking. If you’re looking to order fish online, Benfarmm offers consistent quality and freshness you can count on.
They also cater to bulk orders for HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, and Caterers), ensuring businesses get fresh and reliable stock every time.
About Benfarmm Pvt Ltd.
Benfarmm Pvt Ltd. brings you fresh-sourced meat and fish, directly from farms to your kitchen. As one of Kolkata’s most trusted names, we prioritize quality, freshness, and authenticity.
We deliver premium products that reflect the flavors of Bengal and beyond. Now available on Swiggy, Zomato, and Spencer, Benfarmm makes it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite recipes with the right ingredients.
We also support bulk and HORECA orders, maintaining high standards in every delivery.
Contact Us:
Contact No: +91 9874709182
Email: info@benfarmm.com