Fish curry is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of spices with the tenderness of fish. Originating from coastal regions, this recipe has been perfected over generations to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
While it may seem daunting at first, I assure you, it’s simpler than you think. With a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious fish curry right in your kitchen.
The key to a great fish curry lies in the balance of spices and the freshness of the fish. By sautéing garlic and onions to golden perfection, then adding tomatoes and a mix of spices like chilli powder and turmeric, we create a flavorful base for the dish.
The fish, gently simmered in this fragrant concoction, absorbs all the delicious flavors, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making fish curry at home. With a bit of patience and a willingness to experiment, you’ll soon find yourself creating restaurant-quality dishes right in your own kitchen.
Expert Tip: Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and rubbery. Cook the fish just until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork for the best results.
Oil: The oil is our first player on the field. It is more than a cooking medium in this recipe; it is a carrier, a vehicle that infuses the flavours of all the spices into the fish.
While any cooking oil would work, mustard oil, often used in Indian cuisine, adds a unique sharpness and depth that beautifully complements the spices. However, if you’re looking for a milder flavour, vegetable or canola oil would be an excellent alternative.
Garlic Paste: Its robust, sharp taste serves as a strong foundation for our curry, and the paste form ensures it infuses seamlessly into the oil, spreading its flavour evenly. In a pinch, you can swap it with garlic powder or even finely chopped fresh garlic.Â
Onions: The caramelized onions bring a hint of sweetness that tames the heat of the chillies, rounding off the flavours. Onions also lend a delightful texture to the curry, and their inherent sweetness is drawn out as they cook, complementing the spiciness beautifully. You can substitute it with shallots if you desire a more delicate flavour.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes, with their acidic tang, add depth and balance to our curry, ensuring it doesn’t become overwhelmingly spicy. The pulpy texture helps to create a thick, rich gravy, which can be substituted with tomato puree for a smoother finish.
Chilli Powder and Bullet Chillies: The fiery duo of chilli powder and bullet chillies bring in the signature heat that’s synonymous with Indian cuisine. But fear not, the spice levels are adjustable. If you prefer a milder curry, tone down the chilli powder, or pick a less spicy variety of chilli.
Turmeric Powder: Known for its health benefits and vibrant colour, turmeric brings a subtle earthy bitterness, enhancing the complexity of flavours in our curry. It’s not easily substituted, but in a pinch, a small quantity of saffron could add a similar hue.
Salt: This humble ingredient is a crucial taste enhancer, balancing and intensifying the flavours of all other ingredients. Though simple table salt works perfectly fine, sea salt or kosher salt could add a more nuanced flavour profile.
Fish: The fish, it’s soft, flaky texture and mild taste perfectly soak up the spicy, tangy curry. While cod is used in our recipe, feel free to use any firm white fish of your choice.Â
Coriander: The finishing touch, fresh coriander, adds a refreshing burst of flavour that contrasts and balances the heat of the curry. If you’re not a fan of coriander, fresh parsley can be used for a different, yet equally delightful, herbal note.
Expert Tip: Use fresh fish for the best flavor and texture. Look for fish that smells fresh, with clear eyes and firm flesh.
Expert Tip: Adjust the amount of chilli powder and bullet chillies according to your spice tolerance. You can always add more if you like it extra spicy or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
The cooking time for fish curry can vary depending on factors such as the type of fish used and the thickness of the fish fillets. Generally, it takes about 20-25 minutes to cook fish curry from start to finish.
Yes, you can use any firm-fleshed fish for this recipe. Popular choices include cod, tilapia, salmon, or halibut. Choose a fish that can hold up well in the curry sauce without falling apart.
The level of spiciness in fish curry can be adjusted according to your preference. By controlling the amount of chilli powder and bullet chillies used, you can make the curry as mild or as spicy as you like.
Yes, you can make fish curry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the curry gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
While fish curry can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it without the fish as fish tends to become mushy when frozen and thawed. Prepare the curry base without adding the fish, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the curry base in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop and add the fish before serving.
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