"Raaja Phannaupkari" or Mackerel in Onion seasoned Tangy Chilly gravy - A Konkani delicacy

Mackerel is one of the highly recommended oily fish for a healthy diet. It is also known as maccarello. The slim torpedo-shaped fish is found in deep temperate and tropical waters. It is rich in essential oils, vitamins and minerals. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids occur in high quantities in this fish. It contains vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E and K. Various minerals also occur richly in the fish. These include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium and selenium. Trace minerals include zinc and copper. The fish also contains protein and the antioxidant Coenzyme Q10 which helps to eliminate cancerous agents from afflicted cells.  This oily fish also contains good amounts of vitamins B12 and selenium, which have been found helpful in the treatment of cancer.

This fish is also very reasonably priced, so you can have it as often as possible as its very good for health.

Here is a simple side-dish from the coastal region of Mangalore.

"Soorna Kacchar" or Grilled Elephant Yam or Elephant Yam fritters

A quick and simple snack for a rainy evening are these "Elephant Yam Fritters".

These fritters are also served as a side dish in Konkani meals.

Once marinated and kept, they can be grilled, shallow fried or deep fried as desired and am sure you will love them when served hot with mint chutney.
The fiber content in elephant yam is naturally high and therefore, it is usually considered a slimming food, as it promotes weight loss and reduces the levels of cholesterol in the body. If elephant yam is cooked in the right way, it can be eaten without any fear of weight gain.
It has a cooling effect on the body, which is why it is good for people who suffer from hypertension.
Elephant yams are very high in omega 3 fatty acids; they help reduce the bad cholesterol in the body and increase the good cholesterol instead.