Kerala Fish Curry Recipe

Name: Kerala Fish Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1-1/2 pounds Kingfish (Swordfish Steaks could be used); 2 teaspoons Chili Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Fenugreek Powder; 1 Medium Onion (chopped fine); 1 tablespoon Garlic Paste; 2 tablespoons Ginger Paste; 3 pieces Kokum Star (Kadampuli); 4 sprigs Fresh Curry Leaves; 1/2 teaspoon Black Mustard Seeds; 1 cup Water; 6 tablespoons Oil; 1 pinch Salt (add to taste); 8 ounces Coconut Milk

Servings: persons

1-1/2 pounds Kingfish (Swordfish Steaks could be used)
2 teaspoons Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
1/2 teaspoon Fenugreek Powder
1 Medium Onion (chopped fine)
1 tablespoon Garlic Paste
2 tablespoons Ginger Paste
3 pieces Kokum Star (Kadampuli)
4 sprigs Fresh Curry Leaves
1/2 teaspoon Black Mustard Seeds
1 cup Water
6 tablespoons Oil
1 pinch Salt (add to taste)
8 ounces Coconut Milk

1
Cut Fish into 2 inch squares, anything smaller will fall apart. Then set aside.
2
Soak Kokum Star in 1 cup or more of water. Enough water to emerge the Kokum Star. This is a key ingredient as it adds the tangy flavor to the dish. I have used Tamarind as a substitute. If you do then make sure to remove the black seed. Let this soak in the water for at least 10 minutes. The longer the better.
3
In a deep pan heat the oil. Add the mustard seed and cover for 2 minutes (Mustard Seeds will splutter so do not leave it uncovered).
4
Add in the Onion, Garlic Paste, Ginger Paste and 2 sprigs of Fresh Curry Leaves (remove off the stem). And saute for 2 minutes. By now your house should smell like an Indian Restaurant.
5
In a small bowl mix Chili powder, Turmeric powder, Fenugreek powder and salt with 4 tablespoons of water into a paste. Then add paste into the pan and stir. Saute for 3 minutes.
6
Add Kokum Star with water, stir and bring the heat on high. Then add in the fish pieces while keeping the flame high until the water boils for 5 minutes.
7
Reduce the flame and gently stir without breaking or damaging the fish pieces. Add the remaining 2 sprigs of fresh curry leaves and cook on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes.
8
Lastly, remove off heat and add in the coconut milk slowly and mix in without damaging the fish pieces. Let it sit for 10 minutes or longer. Then serve with Rice or Indian bread. Usually the flavors will intensify the next day and it will taste even better!

255

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1-1/2 pounds Kingfish (Swordfish Steaks could be used), 2 teaspoons Chili Powder, 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder, 1/2 teaspoon Fenugreek Powder, and more.

Yes, Kerala Fish Curry falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Kerala Fish Curry

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions