Indian Curries

Indian Fish Curry

This classic dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its rich and aromatic spices that come together to create a truly unforgettable meal.

This spicy and tangy Indian fish curry is a simple and at the same time tasty dish. It goes very well with white rice, idli and dosa. You can also make this fish curry a day ahead because it the spices and the aroma gets absorbed into the fish and that makes it taste much better the next day. This dish is such a classic that in many restaurants, they have a dish called “Neththu vatcha Mean Kuzhambu” in their menu which litterally translates to Yesterday’s Fish Curry. So go ahead, try this out and tell me how it turned out.

Today, we are going to explore the delicious and flavorful world of Indian fish curry. This classic dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its rich and aromatic spices that come together to create a truly unforgettable meal. In this post, we will walk you through a traditional recipe for Indian fish curry, highlighting the unique flavors and cooking techniques that make it stand out. So, let's dive in and discover the magic of Indian fish curry!

What Is Indian Fish Curry?

Indian fish curry is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines succulent fish slices with a blend of traditional Indian spices and unique seasoning. This dish is a tantalizing mix of tangy tamarind, spicy red chilli powder, aromatic coriander, and earthy turmeric, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
The addition of shallots, garlic, and curry leaves adds depth to the curry, while the use of sesame or coconut oil provides a hint of nuttiness. The result is a mouthwatering fish curry that is both comforting and full of robust flavors.

Why You'll Love Indian Fish Curry?

Rich and Flavorful Texture: Indian fish curry is known for its rich and flavorful texture, with the perfect blend of spices and ingredients that create a truly delectable dish.
Health Benefits: This dish is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. Fish is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients that are good for the heart and overall well-being.
Versatility: Whether using king fish slices or any other type of fish, this recipe can be adapted to suit your personal taste and preferences, making it a versatile choice for any seafood lover.
Traditional and Authentic: The authentic Indian spices and cooking techniques used in this recipe bring out the traditional flavors and aromas that make it a truly authentic dish.
Easy to Prepare: Despite the long list of ingredients, preparing Indian fish curry is relatively easy and straightforward, making it accessible to anyone who wants to try their hand at Indian cooking.
Satisfying and Filling: The combination of fish, spices, and mango slices in this curry creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also filling, making it a perfect meal option for any occasion.

Ingredients for Indian Fish Curry

King Fish Slices: The star of the dish, the fish slices add a rich and meaty texture to the curry, absorbing all the flavorful spices and seasonings.
Sesame Oil or Coconut Oil: Adds a nutty and aromatic flavor to the curry, enhancing the overall taste.
Mustard Seeds: Provides a nutty and slightly spicy flavor, adding depth to the dish.
Fenugreek Seeds: Lends a slightly bitter and sweet taste, elevating the overall flavor profile of the curry.
Garlic Pods and Shallots: These aromatic vegetables add a savory and slightly sweet taste to the curry, enhancing its depth of flavor.
Curry Leaves: Adds a unique, citrusy, and slightly nutty flavor, contributing to the authentic taste of the fish curry.

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors, making Indian fish curry a delightful and aromatic dish that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.

How To Make Indian Fish Curry?

If you're looking to cook up an authentic Indian fish curry, follow these simple steps for a flavorful experience.

Firstly, clean and wash the fish slices properly to ensure they are ready for cooking.
Soak the tamarind in warm water and extract the juice, as this will add a tangy flavor to the curry.
Grind the green chilies, cumin seeds, tomatoes, shallots, and curry leaves to create a smooth paste for the curry base.
Heat a pan with oil over medium heat.
When the oil heats, add mustard seeds and fry until spluttering.
Then add fenugreek seeds and fry until browned.
Add garlic pods, chopped shallots, and curry leaves and sauté until golden brown.
Add red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Sauté well over low heat until a nice aroma comes.
Add the ground tomato paste and sauté well until the oil oozes out from the masala.
Add water and tamarind extract and mix well. Cover and cook over low heat until it starts to boil.
Once boiled, add the fish slices and mango slices. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat or until the fish pieces are cooked and the oil oozes out from the curry.
Finally, add some fresh leaves and serve hot with white rice.

These steps are crucial for preparing the fish and creating the base flavors of the curry. Taking the time to properly clean the fish and prepare the tamarind and spice paste will ensure a delicious and authentic Indian fish curry.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with White Rice: The Indian fish curry pairs perfectly with steamed white rice, allowing the flavors of the curry to shine through.

Serve with Naan or Roti: For a heartier meal, consider serving the fish curry with warm naan or roti to soak up the delicious sauce.

Accompany with Vegetable Side Dish: A side of sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as green beans or okra, complements the rich and flavorful fish curry.

Fresh Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy curry.

Lentil Dish: Consider serving a lentil dish alongside the fish curry, such as dal, for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Chutney or Pickle: A dollop of tangy mango chutney or a spicy pickle adds an extra layer of flavor to the fish curry and completes the meal.

Tips for Making Indian Fish Curry

Preparation Duration: Before starting to cook the fish curry, make sure to set aside enough time for proper preparation of the ingredients. Cleaning and washing the fish slices, soaking the tamarind, and grinding the tomato paste all take time, so plan accordingly.
Cooking Techniques: When cooking the fish curry, be patient and follow the recipe's steps carefully. Pay attention to the heat level when sautéing the spices, as this can greatly impact the flavor of the curry. Also, ensure that the fish slices are cooked perfectly by covering and cooking over low heat to let the flavors meld together.
Garnishing for Presentation: Don't forget the importance of garnishing for presentation. Adding fresh curry leaves or coriander leaves as a final touch not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a layer of freshness to the overall flavor.
Useful Kitchen Tools: Having the right kitchen tools, such as a mixie jar for grinding the tomato paste, can make the preparation process much easier. Additionally, a good quality pan with a lid will help in the cooking process, ensuring the fish curry is cooked to perfection.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder or spicier fish curry, feel free to adjust the quantity of red chili powder and green chilies according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions: Indian fish curry pairs perfectly with white rice, providing a comforting and satisfying meal. Consider serving the curry in a traditional Indian claypot for an authentic touch to your presentation.

Variations for Indian Fish Curry

Fish Options: Try using different types of fish for this curry, such as salmon, tilapia, or even shrimp for a unique flavor and texture.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your spice preference. You can even add some chopped green chilies for an extra kick.
Vegetables: In addition to the mango slices, consider adding other vegetables like okra, eggplant, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the curry.
Coconut Milk: For a creamy and rich variation, substitute some of the water with coconut milk. This will add a smooth and indulgent touch to the curry.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with using fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or basil to add a pop of freshness and color to the dish.
Acidic Element: Instead of tamarind, try using a splash of lime or lemon juice for a zesty and tangy twist to the curry.

By offering these variations, you can customize the Indian fish curry to suit your taste and create a truly unique and personalized dish for your family and friends to enjoy.

How to Store Indian Fish Curry

Properly store fish slices: Ensure that the fish slices are cleaned and stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. It is crucial to keep the fish refrigerated to prevent it from spoiling.
Tamarind extract: Store the tamarind extract in a glass jar and refrigerate it to preserve its flavor and acidity. It is essential to keep it in a cool, dark place to prevent it from going bad.
Spices and herbs: Store the ground spice paste in an airtight container and keep it in a dry, cool place. This will help to maintain the flavor and aroma of the spices and herbs used in the curry.
Coconut or sesame oil: Store these oils in dark, glass bottles and keep them in a cool, dark place to prevent them from turning rancid. It is essential to keep them away from heat and light to maintain their freshness.
Fresh curry leaves: Store fresh curry leaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, they can be stored in the freezer to ensure their longevity and to preserve their flavor.
Mango slices: If there are any leftover mango slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. This will prevent them from spoiling and preserve their flavor for future use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of fish for this curry?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of fish for this curry. You can try using pomfret, seer fish, or even snapper for a different flavor.

What can I use as a substitute for tamarind?

If you don't have tamarind on hand, you can use 1-2 tablespoons of lime or lemon juice as a substitute to achieve that tangy flavor in the curry.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry?

If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of red chilly powder used. Conversely, if you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of red chilly powder according to your taste.

Can I make this curry without mango?

Yes, you can make this curry without mango if you don't have it available. The mango adds a slightly tangy and sweet flavor, but it can be omitted if necessary.

What can I serve this fish curry with?

This fish curry pairs perfectly with steamed white rice. You can also serve it with naan or crusty bread to soak up the delicious curry sauce.

Is it necessary to use curry leaves?

Curry leaves do add a distinct flavor to the curry, but if you don't have them, you can still proceed with the recipe. Try adding a little extra coriander leaves or parsley for a similar herbaceous note.

Lastly, you may also like my other seafood recipes like Grilled kingfish steak, Shrimp Stirfry, Fish Fry, Prawn Biryani, Orange Honey Glazed Salmon, Spicy Grilled Salmon Fillet, Golden Fried Prawns, Tangy and Spicy Salmon Fillet, Shrimp Tacos and Prawn Fried Rice.

Indian Fish Curry 2019-08-29 03:54:50

Recipe Card

Indian Fish Curry

Serves 4 Print

Prep Time 00:10

Cook Time 00:40

Total Time 00:50

Ingredients

500 grams king fish slices or any other fish
3 tbsp sesame oil or coconut oil
1/4 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds
10 garlic pods
15 shallots, chopped roughly
Few curry leaves
3 tsp red chilly powder
1 tbsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
20 grams (lemon sized) tamarind
1&1/2 cups water
1/2 mango

To grind

2 green chillies
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
2 medium sized tomatoes
8 shallots
Few curry leaves

Instructions

Preparations

Firstly, clean and wash the king fish slices properly.
Then soak the tamarind in 1/2 cup of warm water and extract the juice. keep it aside.
Finally, place all the ingredients given under “to grind” in a mixie jar and grind until you get a smooth paste.

How to cook fish curry

Heat a pan with oil over medium heat.
When the oil heats, add mustard seeds and fry until spluttering.
Then add fenugreek seeds and fry until browned.
Also, add garlic pods, chopped shallots and curry leaves and sauté until golden brown.
Then add red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder and salt.
Sauté well over low heat until a nice aroma comes.
Now add the ground tomato paste and sauté well until the oil oozes out from the masala as shown in the picture.
At this stage, add water and tamarind extract and mix well.
Cover and cook over low heat until it starts to boil.
Once it is boiled, add the fish slices and mango slices.
Cover and cook for 10 to 15mins over low heat or until the fish pieces are cooked and the oil oozes out from the curry.
Finally, add some fresh leaves and serve hot with white rice.
By Santhi Therese The Indian Claypot
https://theindianclaypot.com/