Welcome to the Indian seafood face-off, the ultimate east coast vs. west coast seafood battle, where there are no losers and everybody’s a winner!
In the eastern corner, we have Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. In the western corner, we have Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala!
India is a vast country, and its coastline is no exception. Whether you are a fan of the spicy Goan fish curry or the succulent Malabar prawns, there is something to tantalize your taste buds on every shoreline.
Whether you are looking for a seafood feast or a quick snack, you will be sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. So come along on this delicious journey and explore India's coastal seafood.
Overview of the Indian Coastline
The Indian coastline spans a vast 7,517 km and is dotted with 13 major seaports, more than 180 minor seaports, and hundreds of beaches. It is also home to a plethora of marine life.
East Coast Seafood
If you enjoy seafood, the seafood along the eastern coast will not disappoint. The coastal regions of West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are home to some of the tastiest seafood dishes in the country.
1. Bengali Hilsa Fish: The Bengali Hilsa fish is one of the most prized delicacies of the eastern coastline and is famous for its unusual texture and mouthwatering taste. You can find Hilsa at almost every coastal restaurant, but it is best enjoyed fresh from the shores of the Bay of Bengal.
2. Orissa's signature crab dish, KankadaJhal: Crab, onion, ginger, garlic, and dry spices go into making this gravy that is popular in Orissa and its neighbor, Bengal. The spicy, exotic flavor is intended to complement the crab's unique flavor. Occasionally, a dab of mustard paste is stirred in at the very end.
3. Andhra Pradesh, in south India, is home to a delectable fish dish called ChepalaVepudu (fish fry). This dish consists of seer fish that has been marinated in fresh spices, then deep-fried and tossed with onions, curry leaves, and lime juice. The fried version is low in fat and high in protein, and it has a nice, crispy brown exterior while still being moist and flaky on the inside.
4. Tamil Nadu: Mutta Paarai, also known as the Yellow Trevally, is a fish with softer, almost layered flesh and fewer bones than others. When fried, a layer of fatty goodness rises to the surface, and the resulting scent is also delicious.
West Coast Seafood
Make sure you try the Malabar prawns, a famous seafood delicacy of Kerala, or the Prawn Sukka of Goa, a delicious prawn curry.
5. Maharashtrian Fish Thali: The coastal regions of Maharashtra are famous for their delicious thalis. The Maharashtrian Fish Thali is a delicious combination of fish, rice, and a variety of delicious side dishes. The fish thali is best enjoyed with a glass of sweet mango lassi.
6. Mangalorean Crab Curry: The coastal regions of the state of Karnataka are famous for their delicious crab curries. The crab curries of the coastal regions of Karnataka are famous for their use of coconut milk, red chilies, ginger, and plenty of spices. The crab curry is best served with steamed rice and a glass of sweet mango lassi.
7. Kerala: KarimeenPollichathu is a dish that has gained widespread renown among visitors to Kerala. Wrapped in a banana leaf and grilled with a spicy masala sauce, Karimeen (also known as pearl spot fish) is delicious when served with rice. Any fish with firm flesh can be used for this preparation. Sea bass, butterfish, pomfret, and others are all good options.
8. Goan Fish Curry: The coastal regions of Goa are home to some of the tastiest fish curries in the world. Ambot Tik is a popular Konkani dish from Goa that can be made with either freshly caught squid or shark from the Arabian Sea. The use of coconut vinegar, tamarind, and Goan sea salt lends the dish a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from any other seafood dishes.
9. Mangalorean Kane Fry: Typically prepared with long and lean ladyfish, the yummy and crispy Kane Rava Fry is not as straightforward as it first appears. Before being coated in semolina, the fish is marinated in red chilies. The semolina coating makes the fish crunchy on the outside while keeping the meat juicy on the inside.
The Indian coastline is a vast and beautiful place that is home to a rich variety of marine life and a delicious assortment of seafood. So, try and discover some of the best coastal seafood from both the east and west coasts!
