Fish Curry I

Fish Curry I Recipe - Authentic Indian Fish Curry Recipe

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish curry is a popular dish enjoyed by many around the world. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that can be made in various ways depending on the region and personal preferences. In this recipe, we will be making a delicious fish curry using a blend of spices and ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds.

History

Fish curry has a long history and is a staple in many cultures, especially in coastal regions where fish is abundant. The combination of fish and spices cooked in a flavorful gravy has been enjoyed for centuries. Each region has its own unique twist on the dish, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe.

Ingredients

1 kg fish, cut into 1" thick slices (this curry tastes best with rohu but you can use any fish with firm white flesh)
4 tbsp vegetable / canola / sunflower cooking oil
1 tbsp mustard seeds
2 tbsp cumin seeds
8 dry red chillies
1 tsp paanch phoran seeds
10 – 12 curry leaves
1 large onion, ground to a paste
1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tbsp garlic paste
2 large tomatoes, cut into cubes
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala powder
3-4 tbsp coconut powder
walnut-sized ball of tamarind, soaked in 0.5 cup of hot water
2 cups hot water
salt to taste
chopped coriander to garnish

How to prepare

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and roast the dry red chillies, mustard, and cumin seeds until they release their aroma.
Allow the roasted ingredients to cool, then grind them into a fine powder.
Grind the tomatoes, turmeric, garam masala powder, coconut, and the above powder into a smooth paste.
Set the paste aside.
Squeeze the soaked tamarind well to remove all the pulp.
Heat the oil in a wide heavy-bottomed pan and add the paanch phoran and curry leaves.
Once they stop spluttering, add the onion paste and fry until it turns light brown.
Add the ginger and garlic pastes and fry for 3-4 minutes.
Add the tomato and spice paste and fry until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
Add 2 cups of hot water and the tamarind pulp to the masala mixture, stirring well to combine.
Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer.
Gently add the fish to the gravy and cook until it is done.
Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot with plain boiled rice.

Variations

Add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Use different types of fish such as salmon or tilapia for a unique twist.
Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh fish with firm white flesh for the best results.

- Roast the spices before grinding them to enhance their flavor.

- Make sure to fry the masala paste until the oil separates to ensure a rich and flavorful curry.

- Garnish with fresh coriander for a burst of freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fish curry hot with plain boiled rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roast the spices before grinding for a more intense flavor.

- Simmer the curry on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamarind paste instead of tamarind pulp.

- Substitute coconut milk for coconut powder for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This fish curry can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the fish curry with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this fish curry with a side of steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal. A side of cucumber raita or mango chutney would also complement the flavors of the curry.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Fats: 15g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This fish curry is rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Summary

This fish curry is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

This fish curry recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a blend of spices and ingredients, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this delicious fish curry with a side of rice or bread for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Fish Curry. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had invited me to help her in the kitchen one afternoon.

As we gathered the ingredients for our meal, my grandmother shared stories of how she had learned to cook from her own mother and grandmother. She spoke of the importance of using fresh, local ingredients and how each dish had its own unique history and flavor profile.

On this particular day, my grandmother pulled out an old, tattered recipe book that she had inherited from her mother. As she flipped through the pages, she came across a recipe for Fish Curry that she had not made in years. She explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, and that it was a favorite among our relatives.

I watched intently as my grandmother gathered the spices and other ingredients needed for the dish. She explained each step of the process to me, showing me how to properly clean and prepare the fish, and how to combine the spices to create the perfect balance of flavors.

As we cooked together, the kitchen filled with the warm, fragrant aroma of the spices mingling with the fresh fish. My grandmother's hands moved with precision and grace as she stirred the curry, tasting and adjusting the seasoning until it was just right.

When the dish was finally ready, we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The first bite of the Fish Curry was a revelation - the tender fish infused with the rich, spicy sauce was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I could see why this dish was such a beloved family recipe.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me more of her recipes, and I spent countless hours in the kitchen with her, learning the secrets of Indian cooking. Over the years, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipes, but the Fish Curry will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I continue to make this dish for my own family. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to a new generation. And every time I make it, I am transported back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, filled with the sense of anticipation and wonder that comes from discovering a truly special recipe.