Kerala Fish Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe

Kerala Fish Curry with Coconut Milk is a signature dish from the southern region of India, particularly Kerala. It's beloved for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and aromatic spices that perfectly complement the freshness of the fish. Here's a detailed recipe for you to savor:

Ingredients:

• 500g of fresh fish (such as kingfish or pomfret), cleaned and cut into pieces
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 3-4 sprigs of curry leaves
• 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 2 tablespoons Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup thick coconut milk
• 2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Coconut oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil in a deep pan or clay pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in chopped ginger, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy and the oil begins to separate.
5. Lower the heat and add Kashmiri chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Stir well to combine and cook for a minute to release the flavors.
6. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Once the curry base is simmering, gently add the fish pieces. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
8. Cover the pan and let the fish cook for about 10-15 minutes on low heat until it's cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
9. Once the fish is cooked, pour in the thick coconut milk. Stir gently to incorporate it into the curry without breaking the fish pieces.
10. Let the curry simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the coconut milk to infuse its flavor into the dish.
11. Check the seasoning and adjust salt if necessary.
12. Turn off the heat and let the curry sit for a few minutes before serving.
13. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful culinary journey through the flavors of Kerala!

Kerala Fish Curry with Coconut Milk is more than just a dish; it's a reflection of the rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors of the South Indian coastal region. With its creamy coconut undertones and perfect balance of spices, it's a dish that's sure to transport you to the backwaters of Kerala with every delicious bite!