Sprats Moju is a traditional Sri Lankan recipe for a classic quick pickle of sprats and chillies preserved in vinegar and oil. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Sri Lankan version of: Sprats Moju.
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Ingredients:
500g sprats
250g onions, sliced into thin wedges
125ml groundnut oil
200g green chillies
1 dessertspoon sea salt
125ml vinegar
2 dessertspoons black mustard seeds (grind to a smooth paste in a mortar with the vinegar)
Method:
Heat the oil in a wok, add the sprats and fry until crisp. Halve the chillies, add to the sprats and fry until they begin to colour. Add the onions and fry for 4 minutes until softened.
Now add the salt and the mustard vinegar. Stir to combine, take off the heat and pack into sterilized jars that have been warmed in the oven. Ensure that the pickle mix is covered with liquid. Store in the refrigerator (typically it will keep for up to 3 weeks)
This can be used as a base flavouring for curries and it can be served as an accompaniment. It also works as part of a starter.