Kottayam Fish Curry Recipe

Kottayam Fish Curry is a quintessential dish from the southern region of India, particularly Kerala. It's renowned for its rich and tangy flavors, combining fresh fish with a delicious blend of spices and coconut milk. Here's a detailed recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 500g of fresh fish (such as kingfish or mackerel), cleaned and cut into pieces 🐟
• 2 onions, 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. Add chopped ginger, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Now, 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 or appam for a truly authentic experience. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite! 🍛🌴

Kottayam Fish Curry embodies the essence of Kerala cuisine, with its harmonious blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh fish. It's a dish that's steeped in tradition and reflects the vibrant culinary heritage of the region. With its irresistible aroma and tantalizing taste, this curry is sure to leave you craving for more! 🍽️🌶️🥥