Ambot Tik Goa

Ambot means Sour in konkani & Tik means Pungent. This is a traditional dish in both Goa & Mangalore. The preparation style is a little different though, but the majority of the ingredients remains the same.

The tamarind, peppercorns & red chillies add a distinct flavour to the dish. You can substitute prawns for any other fish of your choice. Mangaloreans & Goans prepare Ambot Tik of skate, shark or catfish as they absorb the hot & sour flavour of the gravy very well.

Ingredients :

½ kg fish preferably skate, shark or catfish
10 dry red chillies
¼ tsp cumin seeds
4 peppercorns
¼ inch piece turmeric
4 flakes garlic
½ inch piece ginger
a small (marble size) tamarind
1 onion (sliced fine)
2 tbsp oil

Preparation:

Clean and wash the fish. Cut into desired pieces, apply salt and keep aside. In the meantime grind the above ingredients in a little water.

Fry the onion in oil till it turns brown. Add the masala and fry a bit. Add a cup of water, allow to boil and then add the fish pieces. Cook till tender on slow fire. Add salt and vinegar if necessary.