Grind the ingredients under "for grinding" and set aside.
Heat oil in a saucepan. Briefly fry the shallots and ginger till the raw smell is gone.
Add the ground paste and chillies and saute till the raw smell is gone.
Add the fish and toss it up to coat well. Sprinkle salt and cook on low flame till the fish is done. Add a sprinkle of water if required.
Add the curry leaves and switch off. Serve warm as side for rice or chapathis.