Dried Salted Fish 🐟 It is fish that has been completely dried to preserve it for a long time. It is popular in the Arab kitchen, especially in the Gulf, India, and some African regions, to add a strong, salty flavor to dishes. 🧂 Taste and Characteristics - Strong and salty taste - Pungent smell when used - Gives a concentrated 'umami' flavor to dishes - Needs soaking or cooking for a while to reduce saltiness before direct use 🍽️ Uses - Soups and stews to add a strong seafood flavor - Some rice dishes like Mandi or Kabsa to enhance flavor - Cooked with tomatoes and spices to make a sauce or additions for dishes - Can be used ground or whole depending on the recipe 💡 Tips - Soak in water before cooking to remove some salt and excess smell - Can be ground after drying to use as a seasoning with rice or vegetables - Add gradually during cooking as it is very salty