Kotpad:Feb, 17: Turunja dry fish is considered both delicious and beneficial for health. Its price may surprise many — not Rs100 or Rs 200 per kg, but between Rs 4,000 and Rs 5,000 per kg. Earlier, it was known mainly as a favorite food of tribal communities, but now it is no longer limited to them. It has become a preferred non-vegetarian delicacy even among affluent consumers.
Its unique taste has driven prices sky-high. As soon as it arrives in the market, there is strong competition among buyers to purchase it. Customers often buy and store it for use throughout the year.
This dry fish is no longer confined to Kotpad or even Koraput district. People from neighboring Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, as well as various parts of the state, are very fond of it. Due to increasing demand, its price is rising day by day, say local residents. Anyone who has tasted Turunja dry fish once tends to become a lasting fan of it. Despite the high cost, customers purchase it and send it to relatives in cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack and other places.
Preparation Method:
Generally, most dry fish is prepared by drying it under strong sunlight. However, the tribal preparation method in the Kotpad region is somewhat different. First, the Turunja fish is thoroughly cleaned. Then it is dried beside a burning wood stove rather than directly in the sun. Within three to four days, once it becomes completely dry, it is classified as Turunja dry fish — regarded as both tasty and good for health by local people.