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LUNCH

Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets with Spicy Dipping Sauce

These crispy Sri Lankan fish cutlets are packed with flavor, featuring flaked fish, potatoes, and aromatic spices. Served with a vibrant, spicy dipping sauce, they make for a delightful and satisfying lunch.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

In a large bowl, combine the flaked mackerel, mashed potatoes, chopped red onion, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, curry powder, black pepper, and chopped fresh coriander. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

02

Form the mixture into small, flattened oval or round cutlets, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 12-15 cutlets.

03

Set up a dredging station: place the beaten egg in one shallow dish and the breadcrumbs in another. Dip each cutlet first into the egg, ensuring it's fully coated, then transfer to the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

04

Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F/175°C. Carefully place 3-4 cutlets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

05

Fry the cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.

06

For the spicy dipping sauce, combine the chopped red chilies, lime juice, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Adjust spice and sweetness to your preference.

07

Serve the hot Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets immediately with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.

About This Recipe

These crispy Sri Lankan fish cutlets are packed with flavor, featuring flaked fish, potatoes, and aromatic spices. Served with a vibrant, spicy dipping sauce, they make for a delightful and satisfying lunch.
Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, lightly toast the curry powder before adding it to the fish mixture. Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for frying to achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside. If the oil is too cool, the cutlets will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Easy Substitutions

You can use canned salmon or tuna instead of mackerel. For a vegetarian option, substitute the fish with mashed chickpeas or lentils. If fresh chilies are too spicy, use a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the dipping sauce.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover fish cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F/175°C for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through. The dipping sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cutlets as an appetizer with a fresh green salad, alongside a bowl of plain rice and a simple dhal curry for a complete meal, or as part of a larger Sri Lankan spread with other short eats.

Common Mistakes

Over-mixing the fish and potato can make the cutlets dense; mix just until combined. Overcrowding the frying pan will lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy cutlets; fry in batches. Not draining excess oil properly can make them soggy; use a wire rack. Forgetting to season the fish mixture adequately can result in bland cutlets; taste and adjust before frying. Not pressing the breadcrumbs firmly enough can cause them to fall off during frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these cutlets instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them. Place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F/200°C for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. They may not be as crispy as fried ones.

Can I prepare the cutlets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can form and bread the cutlets, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them uncooked for up to 1 month; thaw slightly before frying.

What kind of canned fish works best?

Canned mackerel is traditional, but canned salmon or tuna (in water or oil) also work well. Ensure it's well-drained and flaked to remove any bones or skin.
MORE TO KNOW
Sri Lankan fish cutlets are a beloved snack or appetizer, often found at tea stalls and gatherings. The key to their deliciousness lies in the balance of savory fish, creamy potato, and aromatic spices. The addition of fresh coriander brightens the flavor profile, while the ginger-garlic paste provides a foundational warmth. When forming the cutlets, ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking. The double-dredging method (egg then breadcrumbs) creates a robust crust that stands up to frying, delivering that satisfying crunch. The spicy dipping sauce, with its bright lime and chili kick, perfectly complements the rich, savory cutlets, cutting through the richness and adding an exciting layer of flavor.
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