Coconut Milk Fish Curry Recipe

Ready to dive into a fishy fiesta that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance? Get ready for the ultimate fish curry with coconut milk – a dish that combines the rich flavours of Kerala with the creamy goodness of coconut milk. This coconut fish curry Kerala style is not just a recipe, it’s an experience. So, grab your apron, and let’s curry on!

 

 

 

 

Ingredients: For this coconut fish curry recipe Kerala

A plate of fresh tilapia fillet surrounded by ingredients for preparing fish curry with coconut milk
A plate of fresh tilapia fillets with ingredients for making fish curry using coconut milk
  • 1 kg firm white fish like snapper, Cod fish like Grouper/Reef Cod /Hamour or tilapia from FreshToHome. Our fish are formalin & ammonia free and directly sourced from fisherfolk, guaranteeing you the freshest delicacy possible!
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chilli powder
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1.
Oil’s Well That Ends Well
Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Let them sizzle and pop – this is where the magic starts!

2.
Aromatic Adventure
Add the finely chopped onions to the pot and sauté until golden brown. Toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves. Stir until your kitchen smells like a tropical paradise.

3.
Tomato Tango
Add the chopped tomatoes to the mix. Cook until they soften and blend into a luscious sauce. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Give it a good stir – we’re building layers of flavour here!

4.
Fish & Coconut Fusion
Gently add the fish chunks to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk, and stir carefully to coat the fish. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender. This is the essence of fish and coconut curry!

5.
Season Finale
Season with salt to taste. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon to brighten up the flavours. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of colour and freshness.

 

Serving Suggestions:

A bowl of creamy fish curry using coconut milk served with fluffy naan
Coconut Fish Curry with Naan
  • Rice to Meet You: Serve this delicious fish and coconut milk curry with steamed basmati rice or fluffy jasmine rice. The rice will soak up that creamy goodness and leave you wanting more.
  • Bread Winners: Pair with warm, fluffy naan or bhatura for a delightful, scoopable experience.
  • Veggie Tales: Add a side of sautéed spinach or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the rich flavours of the curry.

Fishy Facts:

  • Kerala Craze: This coconut fish curry recipe Kerala style is a staple in South Indian cuisine, known for its vibrant flavours and aromatic spices.
  • Cream of the Crop: Coconut milk not only adds a creamy texture but also balances the heat from the chilies and spices.
  • Health Hero: This dish is rich in protein from the fish and healthy fats from the coconut milk, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.

Chef’s Tips:

  • Fresh is Best: Use the freshest fish available for the best flavour and texture.
  • Spice it Right: Adjust the amount of chilli to suit your heat preference. If you like it milder, reduce the chilli powder and green chilies.
  • Coconut Quality: Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest, richest curry. Light coconut milk just won’t cut it here!

Fun Twist:
For a variation, you can make this fish curry without coconut milk, replacing it with a blend of yogurt and water. While this would no longer be a fish curry using coconut milk, it would still be a delicious, tangy alternative.

Curry On and Enjoy!

There you have it – the ultimate coconut fish curry recipe Kerala style. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich, creamy flavours and aromatic spices. So, curry on, enjoy the steamy goodness, and remember: when life gives you lemons, squeeze them into your curry!

 

SUBMITTED BY:
Nikita Goswami
FreshToHome Customer, 
Since 2023
Fish Lover & Home Chef