Place shallots, garlic, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, ground turmeric, ground coriander, chilly powder, and salt in the bowl of a small food processor. Process until a paste forms. Add a little amount of water if needed.

Place the cleaned fish pieces in a bowl. Rub with the marinade. Marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place the fish pieces in the pan. Shallow fry until done. Serve with rice and tomato and onion salad.