Mangalore Fish Curry Recipe
Description
Mangalore Fish Curry is a flavorful dish from the coastal region of Karnataka, specifically Mangalore. This vibrant curry combines the richness of coconut milk, the tanginess of tamarind, and the heat of chillies, creating a perfect balance of spices that complement the tender king fish. Served best with neer dosa, sanas, or steamed rice, this Mangalorean fish curry is a true delight for seafood lovers. The use of freshly ground spices and coconut milk brings out the authentic Konkan flavors that make this dish a must-try for anyone who loves traditional Indian coastal cuisine.
Cuisine: Mangalorean
Course: Lunch
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| King fish | 500 grams, sliced |
| Onion | 1, very finely chopped |
| Green Chillies | 4, slit |
| Coconut milk | 3/4 cup |
| Oil | As required |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Tamarind | 25 grams |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 tablespoon |
| Curry Leaves | A handful |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 300-350 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 700-900 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning and slicing the king fish. In a bowl, marinate the fish with a pinch of salt and a small sprinkle of turmeric powder. Set it aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. -
Soak the Tamarind:
In a separate bowl, soak the tamarind in 1/2 cup of warm water for about 5-10 minutes. Once softened, extract the juice and set it aside for later use. -
Cook the Base:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat a sufficient amount of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and slit green chillies. Sauté them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions turn golden brown. Be careful not to let the onions burn. -
Add the Spices:
Once the onions are browned, add the red chilli powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Stir well and sauté the spice mixture for about 1 minute to release the full flavor of the spices. -
Add Tamarind Juice:
Pour the tamarind juice into the pan with the onion-spice mixture. Add 3/4 cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Cook the Fish:
Now, gently add the marinated fish slices into the pan. Stir carefully to coat the fish with the curry base. Allow the fish to cook for about 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked through, ensuring that the fish remains tender and absorbs the flavors. -
Finish with Coconut Milk:
Reduce the heat and pour in the coconut milk. Stir to combine and let the curry simmer for an additional minute or so. Add a handful of curry leaves for an aromatic finish. Once everything is well combined and the curry has thickened slightly, turn off the heat. -
Serve:
Transfer the Mangalore Fish Curry into a serving bowl. Serve it hot with neer dosa, steamed rice, or appams for a complete Mangalorean meal.
Tips for the Perfect Mangalore Fish Curry
- Fish Selection: King fish is the ideal choice for this curry due to its firm texture. However, you can also use other firm white fish like pomfret or mackerel if preferred.
- Coconut Milk: If you’re using store-bought coconut milk, try to choose one with a high-fat content for a richer curry. Fresh coconut milk will elevate the taste even further.
- Tamarind: Adjust the tamarind to your preferred level of tanginess. If you like a more pronounced tang, you can increase the quantity slightly.
- Heat: If you prefer a spicier curry, feel free to add extra green chillies or red chilli powder.
Serving Suggestions
This Mangalore Fish Curry pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of neer dosa, fluffy appams, or plain steamed rice, making it a comforting and flavorful lunch. For a complete Mangalorean feast, add a side of coconut-based vegetable dishes or a simple salad.
Enjoy this coastal delicacy as a vibrant addition to your next lunch or dinner gathering, and let the flavors of Mangalore transport you straight to the heart of Karnataka’s coastline!
