Preparation

Heat oil for shallow-frying in a pan over medium heat. Fry the fish fillets until pale gold on both sides. Remove from the pan.
In the same oil, briefly stir-fry the onion, ginger and garlic cloves. Stir the turmeric into the vinegar and add to the pan, mixing well. Return the fish to the pan and sprinkle over the mustard seeds and chilli. Mix gently to coat the fish in onion and spices. Put the fish into a large sterilised jar and top with the onions (which should still be crunchy) and liquid. Store in the refrigerator for a few days before using (it will keep for up to 2 weeks).

Ingredients

  • vegetable oil
  • 1 kg firm, thick, white fish fillets or cutlets
  • 2 medium onions, thickly sliced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 2 tsp turmeric
  • 200 ml white vinegar
  • 1 tsp black mustard seeds, lightly ground
  • 2 small red chillies, finely sliced