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Delicious Goan Fish Curry served with rice and garnished with fresh herbs

Goan Fish Curry

Explore the rich flavors of coastal India with this exquisite Goan Fish Curry, a creamy coconut sauce combined with succulent fish and vibrant spices, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Coastal, Goan, Indian
Calories: 475

Ingredients
  

Spices
  • 2.5 tbsp Kashmiri chili powder Gives the curry its rich color and mild spice.
  • 1 tbsp coriander Brings depth to the flavor profile.
  • 2 tsp cumin Enhances the dish’s complexity.
  • 1 tsp turmeric Adds color and health benefits.
  • 0.5 tsp fenugreek powder Unique flavor that elevates the curry.
  • 3/8 tsp ground cloves Introduces warmth and sweetness.
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder Adds an extra layer of heat.
Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger (finely grated) Adds a fresh, zesty note.
  • 0.5 red onion (chopped) Builds the foundation of flavor.
  • 1 tomato (cut into 8 wedges) Brightens the dish.
  • 0.5 red onion (quartered and thinly sliced) Added for texture and sweetness.
Liquids
  • 2 tbsp tamarind puree Gives the curry a characteristic zing.
  • 6 tbsp water (plus more, as needed) Achieves desired consistency.
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil Used for sautéing.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste Acts as a base for the sauce.
  • 2/3 cup canned tomato pulp Complements the curry’s spices.
  • 2/3 cup water Helps create a smooth sauce.
  • 400 ml coconut milk (full-fat) Adds creaminess.
Main Ingredient
  • 600 g firm-fleshed white fish (cut into 3cm cubes) Ensures a flaky, tender texture.
Seasoning
  • 1.25 tsp salt (cooking/kosher) Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1.5 tsp sugar Balances acidity.
  • 2 long green chilies (optional) Adds spice and color.
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander/cilantro leaves For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a tall jug or milkshake container, combine the curry paste ingredients. Use an immersion blender to blitz on high for 5 to 10 seconds until the onion is pureed. Add more water if needed for a smoother consistency.
Cooking
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the black mustard seeds, allowing them to sizzle for about 30 seconds.
  2. Add the chopped red onion to the pot and sauté for approximately 3 minutes, until the edges begin to turn golden.
  3. Add the prepared curry paste, cooking for about 3 minutes to evaporate excess water and allow the spices to bloom.
  4. Raise the heat to medium-high, then add the tomato paste and tomato pulp. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the 2/3 cup of water, the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and optional chili powder. Stir, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat.
  6. Add the tomato wedges and green chilies, allowing another 3 minutes for the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Carefully stir in the fish cubes and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving
  1. Transfer the curry to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh coriander and optional green chilies, and serve hot with basmati rice.

Notes

Use fresh fish for the best flavor. Can substitute fish with shrimp, tofu, or vegetables for variations. Adjust spice levels as desired.