Coconut Fish Curry
Coconut Fish Curry is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender white fish with creamy full-fat coconut milk and warm spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. This easy-to-make curry offers a perfect balance of exotic and comforting flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s healthy, versatile, and you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Fish and Protein
- 500g fresh firm white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
Base and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons oil (coconut or vegetable)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 fresh or dried chili, chopped (adjust to heat preference)
Liquids and Garnish
- 400ml full-fat canned coconut milk
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Prepare the Fish: Clean and cut the fish into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the fish hold together during cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and stir until they turn translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant to build the flavorful curry base.
- Toast the Spices: Sprinkle turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili into the pan. Stir continuously to toast the spices lightly, releasing their essential oils and enhancing aroma.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Add chopped tomatoes, cooking until softened and blended with the spices, forming a rich and fragrant sauce.
- Pour in Coconut Milk: Slowly stir in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken slightly and marry the flavors.
- Cook the Fish: Gently add the fish pieces to the curry. Simmer just until the fish is cooked through and tender, about 5-7 minutes depending on thickness. Avoid overcooking to keep fish flaky.
- Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the curry for vibrant color and a fresh herbal burst that complements the creamy sauce.
Notes
- Choose fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.
- Control the chili heat by adding the chili gradually to suit your preference.
- Allow the curry to simmer slowly to fully develop the flavors.
- Use full-fat coconut milk to achieve a richer, creamier texture.
- Handle the fish gently during cooking to avoid breaking the pieces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Coconut fish curry, fish curry recipe, coconut milk curry, healthy fish curry, easy fish curry, Indian curry, seafood curry, gluten free curry