
Risso Fried Fish Fillet
Lunch • India
How to Make Risso Fried Fish Fillet (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Risso Fried Fish Fillet is a beloved Indian lunch dish, especially popular in coastal regions like Kerala, Goa, and West Bengal where fresh fish is abundant. Traditionally, fish fillets are marinated with aromatic Indian spices and shallow-fried to preserve their delicate flavors and nutrients. This healthy version uses minimal oil and incorporates whole wheat 'atta' for a crisp yet wholesome coating, making it lighter than classic deep-fried iterations. The dish is known for its succulent texture and vibrant taste, complemented by earthy spices like haldi (turmeric), mirch (red chilli), and jeera (cumin). In many Indian households, fried fish fillet is served during festivals like Durga Puja or Onam, celebrating the bounty of the sea and river. It's a perfect lunch meal, often paired with steamed rice, dal, or chapati. With its balanced flavors and health-conscious preparation, Risso Fried Fish Fillet appeals to both traditional tastes and modern dietary needs. This recipe is designed for calorie-conscious eaters, ensuring you enjoy authentic Indian flavors without compromising on nutrition.
Ingredients(for 1 medium fillet per person)
- 2 fillets (150g each) Fresh fish fillet (rohu, pomfret, or basa) (machhli)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/4 cup Besan (gram flour) (besan)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (mirch)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder (jeera)
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lehsun)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (nimbu)
- 2 tbsp Mustard oil (sarson ka tel)
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh coriander leaves (dhaniya) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash the fish fillets thoroughly and pat dry using a clean cloth. Place them in a bowl.
3 minutes
Ensure fillets are dry for better marination and crispiness.
- 2
Prepare the marinade by mixing ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and salt. Rub this mixture gently onto the fillets and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinate longer for deeper flavor if time permits.
- 3
In a separate bowl, combine whole wheat atta and besan. Lightly coat each marinated fillet with this flour mixture.
4 minutes
Dust off excess flour for an even, thin coating.
- 4
Heat mustard oil on a tawa (flat griddle) over medium flame. Once hot, place the coated fillets gently on the tawa.
2 minutes
Mustard oil gives authentic taste and aroma; heat it till it smokes lightly.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By using shallow frying and whole wheat flour, this recipe significantly reduces calories and saturated fat compared to traditional deep-fried versions. The use of mustard oil, fiber-rich besan, and fresh fish ensures a balanced meal with healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients. This makes Risso Fried Fish Fillet ideal for calorie-conscious, weight loss, and diabetic-friendly diets without sacrificing authentic Indian flavor.
This Risso Fried Fish Fillet is packed with high-quality protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and muscle repair. Whole wheat atta and besan add dietary fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining satiety. Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. The spices provide anti-inflammatory benefits, while lemon juice boosts vitamin C intake. The dish is naturally gluten-reduced and free from artificial additives, making it a nutritious lunch option.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly caught fish for authentic flavor and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Always heat mustard oil till it smokes lightly to remove raw taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve immediately after frying to maintain crispiness.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a tawa for best crispiness. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |





