chennai 8/17: Oh, very unusual - Indian style fish preparation at the street fish market
mr.hotsia travel India Province unspecified HOT05811
Chennai 8/17: Oh, very unusual - Indian style fish preparation at the street fish market
Speaking of Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu state located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, many people probably think of the hustle and bustle of a big city blending ancient culture and modernity. But this time, mr.hotsia would like to share a new and exciting experience I just had at the street fish market in Chennai. This is not an ordinary fish market, but a unique Indian style fish preparation that I must say, "Oh, very unusual!"
I followed the scent of the sea and the chatter of the vendors in this lively market. The street fish market in Chennai is unlike any fish market you have seen in other cities that focus on cleanliness or orderliness. Here is another world full of vibrancy and many fascinating and unusual fish preparation methods.
The first thing mr.hotsia noticed was the fish selection. The locals here choose fresh fish directly from the Bay of Bengal. Most of the fish are various types of sea fish, including the famous Hilsa fish known in the Bay of Bengal region, and other local sea fish that can only be found here. I have heard stories about Hilsa fish from nearby BangladeshBengaluruBut at the fish market in Chennai, the handling and preparation methods are completely different.
The Indian fish preparation here starts with quick filleting. Each step is precise and involves tireless labor. I saw vendors preparing fish thoroughly, ready to be cooked in restaurants or sold to local customers. The atmosphere was full of lively bargaining. Sometimes mr.hotsia joined in with simple English conversations and received smiles and friendly explanations.
One remarkable thing is the use of traditional tools that still work well and seem unaffected by modern times, including fish preservation methods that keep the fish fresh in Chennai's hot and humid climate. I thought of the Chennai seaside market I had visited beforeChennai seaside marketwhich shares similar liveliness and vibrancy, but this street fish market has a different kind of charm.
While walking around the market, I met a female vendor who told me that fish here has been part of Chennai people's lifestyle for a long time. They use fresh fish to make signature Tamil Nadu dishes such as crispy fried fish or spicy fish curry with local spices. It is also an important food source that locals frequently buy daily.
I didn't miss the chance to try fried fish from a small shop next to the market. The crispy fried fish topped with spicy sauce had a rich flavor unlike anything I've tried in India before. It was an experience that mr.hotsia will cherish from this trip.
Getting here is not as difficult as you might think. Chennai is a city with transportation systems well connected to other parts of the country, whether by train or international airport. If you are interested in detailed travel in this city, you can follow my stories atBackpacking Chennai, Indiawhere I have shared complete experiences and travel tips for Chennai.
If you are looking for an adventure close to local life, the street fish market in Chennai is a destination you must not miss. Here, you will feel like traveling back in time to truly experience the real life of Indian people.
Finally, mr.hotsia recommends everyone to watch the travel video atchennai 8/17: Oh, very unusual - Indian style fish preparation at the street fish marketto see the real scenes and atmosphere I encountered at this fish market. I guarantee it is as unusual and exciting as described.