Kolhapuri Fish

Kolhapuri Fish Recipe - Authentic Indian Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kolhapuri Fish is a spicy and flavorful dish that originates from the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, India. This dish is known for its rich and aromatic gravy that is made with a blend of traditional Indian spices and coconut.

History

Kolhapuri Fish has been a popular dish in the region of Kolhapur for many years. It is believed to have originated in the royal kitchens of the Maratha rulers of the region, who were known for their love of spicy and flavorful dishes. Over time, this dish has become a staple in Maharashtrian cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over India.

Ingredients

1 kg fish, filleted and cubed
0.67 cup yoghurt
1 cup chopped tomato
1 cup chopped onions
1 tsp garlic paste
2 tsp grated coconut
1 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp chilli powder
1.5 tsp salt or to taste
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tsp oil
1 bay leaf
1 tsp broken cinnamon
6 cloves
1 tsp crushed black pepper
2 tsp oil
coriander leaves for garnish

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix turmeric, chilli powder, garlic paste, salt, and lemon juice with yoghurt. Marinate the fish in this mixture for 10 minutes.
Heat oil in a pan and add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and onions. Sauté until the onions are soft. Add coconut and continue sautéing until it turns light brown.
Add tomatoes to the pan and cook until excess water evaporates. Transfer the entire mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
In the same pan, heat the remaining oil and add the marinated fish. Stir fry over high heat until the fish turns opaque. Add the blended paste and simmer over low heat until the fish is fully cooked. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.

Variations

You can use different types of fish like salmon or tilapia instead of the traditional fish used in this recipe.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes to make it a more hearty dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the fish in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.

- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and dry.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kolhapuri Fish with steamed rice or Indian bread like naan or roti.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the fish in yogurt helps to tenderize the fish and infuse it with flavor.

- Blending the onion-tomato-coconut mixture creates a smooth and rich gravy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a thicker consistency.

- If you don't have fresh coconut, you can use desiccated coconut.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the fish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kolhapuri Fish in a traditional Indian serving dish garnished with fresh coriander leaves.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Kolhapuri Fish with a side of cucumber raita and a refreshing mint chutney.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and Iron.

Alergens

Contains fish and dairy (yogurt)

Summary

Kolhapuri Fish is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Kolhapuri Fish is a delicious and spicy dish that is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. With a rich and aromatic gravy, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother was known for her delicious cooking, and I was always by her side, eager to learn her culinary secrets.

One day, a family friend from the city came to visit us, bringing with her a special dish she called Kolhapuri Fish. I had never tasted anything like it before – the perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, with tender pieces of fish simmered in a rich coconut curry. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I begged our friend to teach me the recipe, and she graciously agreed. We spent the entire day in the kitchen, chopping and grinding spices, cooking the fish to perfection, and creating a dish that was truly unforgettable. From that moment on, Kolhapuri Fish became a staple in our household, and I made it for every special occasion.

Over the years, I refined the recipe, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I learned from other friends and family members, incorporating their tips and tricks into my cooking. Each time I made Kolhapuri Fish, it brought back memories of that first time I tasted it, and I felt a deep connection to the dish and the people who had taught me how to make it.

As I grew older and had children of my own, I passed down the recipe to them, ensuring that it would continue to be a part of our family's culinary tradition. I taught them the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, of taking their time to cook the dish slowly and with love, and of always sharing their food with others.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of spices and simmering fish, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the memories this recipe holds. It reminds me of my grandmother, who passed down her love of cooking to me, and of all the friends and family members who have shared their own recipes and techniques with me over the years.

Kolhapuri Fish has become more than just a dish in our household – it is a symbol of love, tradition, and connection. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls as well.

So as I serve up a steaming bowl of Kolhapuri Fish to my family tonight, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and love. For this recipe, and for all the people who have helped me along the way, I am truly thankful. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share this dish with others, its legacy will live on for generations to come.