Keralan Fish Curry
Description:
Transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of South India with this fiery Keralan Fish Curry. Bursting with aromatic spices, tangy tomatoes, and the rich creaminess of coconut milk, this curry is a delightful balance of heat and flavor. A perfect dish for those who enjoy bold, flavorful, and comforting meals. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or just craving something new, this curry is sure to impress. Serve it with fragrant basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Serves: 6
Dietary Information: Lactose-Free
Spice Level: Hot
Rating: 3.7/5 (Based on 137 votes)
Views: 146,307
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Firm white fish (cut into chunks) | 750g |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Coconut oil | 1 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 20 leaves |
| Shallots (finely sliced) | 5 |
| Garlic cloves (finely sliced) | 4 |
| Fresh ginger (finely sliced) | 3 cm piece |
| Green chili (finely sliced) | 1-2 |
| Kashmiri chili powder | 1 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 4 |
| Coconut milk (tin) | 400ml |
| Fresh coriander (chopped) | A handful |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish: Coat the fish chunks evenly with salt and turmeric. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
-
Temper the Spices: In a large shallow pan, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Let them pop and crackle for a few seconds, releasing their flavors.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely sliced shallots, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
-
Create the Spice Paste: In a small bowl, combine the Kashmiri chili powder and turmeric with a splash of water to form a paste. This helps to prevent the turmeric from burning. Add the paste to the pan and stir well.
-
Add the Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Let it heat through for a few minutes.
-
Cook the Fish: When ready to serve, add the chopped tomatoes and stir them in. Gently add the fish chunks to the pan and cook on a low heat for about 5 minutes, until the fish is tender and fully cooked.
-
Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Once cooked, sprinkle fresh chopped coriander on top for a burst of freshness.
-
Serve: Serve the Keralan Fish Curry hot with fragrant basmati rice for an unforgettable meal.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains coconut (in the coconut oil and coconut milk). Please be cautious if you have any coconut allergies.
Dietary Preferences
- Lactose-Free: This dish is suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant as it contains no dairy products.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe does not contain gluten, making it a safe choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Spicy: This curry is hot, so it’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. Feel free to adjust the chili to your taste!
Cooking Tips & Advice
- Adjusting Spice Levels: The heat of the dish can be easily adjusted by reducing the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or green chili. If you’re unsure of the spice level, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.
- Fish Selection: Firm white fish works best in this curry, as it holds up well during cooking. Options like cod, tilapia, or haddock are great choices.
- Freshness: The addition of fresh coriander right before serving adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the entire dish. Don’t skip this step for a burst of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs beautifully with basmati rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with naan or any flatbread of your choice for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
Keralan Fish Curry is a vibrant, aromatic dish that showcases the bold flavors of South India. With its balance of heat, richness from the coconut milk, and the freshness of coriander, it’s a meal that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned lover of spicy food, this curry is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy it with your family and friends, and let the exotic flavors take you on a culinary journey to the coastal region of Kerala!
