Madras Fish Curry a Taste of South India

Madras Fish Curry: A Taste of South India
Fancy a bit of sunshine on a plate? This Madras Fish Curry Recipe will transport you straight to South India.
It is packed with flavour. It is also surprisingly easy to make. We are talking tender fish simmered in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Honestly, what is not to love?
What is Madras Fish Curry?
This curry is a celebration of South Indian flavours. It has a warm spice, tangy tomatoes, and rich coconut milk.
The dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It can also be a star at your next dinner party.
It is a South Indian fish curry recipe with a big personality. Think of the origin and cultural significance of the dish.
This easy fish curry recipe is rated medium difficulty. Prep takes about 20 minutes. Cook time is around 30 minutes.
This spicy fish curry serves 4. You can enjoy this without a ton of efforts.
Why You'll Love This Curry
This coconut milk fish curry is packed with goodness. Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3s. The curry spices also have anti inflammatory properties.
This is a win-win. This dish is perfect for a cosy night in. It is also great for impressing your mates.
What makes it special? It is the depth of flavour. Also the simplicity of the recipe.
Okay, so what will you need? Let’s grab the ingredients. You can adjust the spices. I often add an extra chilli for a bit more kick.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this smashing Madras Fish Curry Recipe ! I'm telling you, even if you think you can't cook, this one is foolproof.
Well, almost. I burnt the garlic the first time, honestly.
Ingredients & Equipment
This Bengali Fish Curry Recipe In English version, like most South Indian fish curry recipe dishes, comes down to good ingredients. It is quite simple.
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) firm white fish fillets. Think cod, haddock, or tilapia. Cut 'em into 2 inch chunks. Freshness is key. If it smells fishy before cooking, ditch it!
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice. Fresh is best, but the bottled stuff will do in a pinch.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) turmeric powder. This adds colour and a bit of earthy flavour.
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) salt.
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil or coconut oil. Coconut oil adds a lovely richness, especially for a Coconut milk fish curry .
- 1 large onion, finely chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Don't skimp on the garlic. It is what brings the aromas.
- 1 inch (2.5 cm) ginger, grated. Fresh ginger is much better than ground.
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped. Adjust to your spice level. It becomes a Spicy fish curry if you add more!
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Madras curry powder. This is the star.
- 1 tsp (5 ml) ground coriander.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) ground cumin.
- 1 (14.5 oz / 411g) can diced tomatoes, undrained.
- 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk. Full fat or light. Your choice.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water.
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) tomato paste.
- 1 tsp (5 ml) sugar (optional). Just a pinch to balance the acidity.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt (or to taste).
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish.
- Lime wedges, for serving.
Seasoning Notes
Madras curry powder is the heart of this. It’s got a good kick! For an Authentic Mangalorean Fish Curry , you might want to add a pinch of fenugreek for an extra depth of flavour.
Honestly, don’t be afraid to experiment. Garam masala is a fine replacement.
Equipment Needed
You really don't need much.
- A large skillet or Dutch oven.
- A cutting board.
- A chef's knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Eyeballing it works too.
Seriously, this Easy fish curry recipe is so simple. You can get a proper Indian fish curry going in no time.
Don't be suprised with a Fish curry with rice . You got this! This is a great Quick Madras fish curry .
Madras Fish Curry: A Taste of South India
Fancy a trip to the seaside, without leaving your kitchen? This Madras Fish Curry Recipe will whisk you away! This isn’t just any fish curry with rice dish, this is a proper flavour bomb.
Seriously, my grandma used to make a South Indian fish curry recipe like this. Honestly, it brings back all the best memories! We want you to fall in love with Indian fish curry too!
Let’s be real. This easy fish curry recipe isn't as simple as boiling an egg. But it is totally achievable.
We're talking delicious, flaky fish swimming in a rich, spicy coconutty sauce. You can even adjust the spice to your taste! Ready to ditch the takeaway? Thought so.
Prep Steps
Before we get started, let's get our mise en place sorted. We don't want to be scrambling around mid-cook. Having all ingredients prepped and ready is key to any successful cook.
- Essential Mise en Place : Chop your onion, mince your garlic and ginger, measure out your spices, and chop the fish!
- Time Saving Organization Tips : Use small bowls to pre-portion all spices. This makes things so much easier.
- Safety Reminders : Be careful when chopping chillies! Don't rub your eyes!
step-by-step Process
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a killer Madras fish curry on the table in no time.
- Marinate the Fish : In a bowl, combine fish, lemon juice, turmeric, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes .
- Sauté Aromatics : Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, ginger, and chilies; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Bloom the Spices : Stir in curry powder, coriander, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly. You'll smell that amazing fragrance, that's how you know!
- Build the Sauce : Add diced tomatoes, coconut milk, water, and tomato paste. Simmer for 15 minutes , stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and sugar to taste.
- Add the Fish : Gently add marinated fish. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes , until fish flakes easily. Critical Temperature Point : Internal temperature should reach 145° F ( 63° C).
- Garnish and Serve : Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with rice or naan bread. Perfect with Bengali Fish Curry Recipe In English !
Pro Tips
Want to take your coconut milk fish curry to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've learned over the years, cooking this classic Authentic Mangalorean Fish Curry :
- Expert Technique : Toast your Madras curry powder in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding it to the oil. This intensifies the flavor.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid : Don’t overcook the fish! Nobody wants rubbery fish.
- Quick Madras fish curry : Use a can of green peas to add a twist
Honestly, I reckon once you’ve nailed this spicy fish curry , you’ll be making it every week! It's just that good! Enjoy.
Recipe Notes
Right, so you're ready to whip up this Madras Fish Curry Recipe? Awesome! Before you dive in, let’s chat about a few things that'll make your life easier.
Honestly, these tips are what separate a good curry from a bloody brilliant one. We want to get that Authentic Mangalorean Fish Curry flavor, right?
Serving Like a Pro
Think about your presentation. A simple garnish of fresh cilantro goes a long way. For plating, serve your Madras fish curry in a shallow bowl, ladled generously over a bed of fluffy basmati rice.
A wedge of lime on the side is a must. It adds a zesty kick that cuts through the richness.
As for sides, nothing beats classic naan bread. Cucumber raita is your best friend if you like to balance the Spicy fish curry with something cooling.
I even tried a mango lassi once. It's the perfect sweet treat. Or you can go with an ice cold Kingfisher beer.
Ah, that's the life.
Storage Secrets
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Madras Fish Curry tastes even better the next day. Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be happy in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Honestly, I wouldn't risk it any longer than that. Fish is a bit delicate.
Freezing this Easy fish curry recipe isn't my first choice. The texture of the fish can change, but, if you must, freeze it within 24 hours of cooking.
Use a freezer safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months . When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Then, gently reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Variations: Spice It Up or Tone It Down
Fancy a Coconut milk fish curry but watching your waistline? Use light coconut milk instead of full fat. It makes a negligible change, I tell ya.
Want a South Indian fish curry recipe but your vegetarian friend is coming over? Swap the fish for chickpeas or paneer.
Suddenly, you've got a stellar veggie curry! Or you can prepare a Bengali Fish Curry Recipe In English
Craving a seriously hot curry? Add an extra green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Boom! You can also add some tomato paste for Quick Madras fish curry
Nutrition Nuggets
Okay, so a serving of this Indian fish curry is roughly 350 calories. That’s a decent amount of protein (around 30g) and about 20g of fat.
Also, it has some carbs (around 15g). Fish is great for your brain! It's packed with omega-3s. The turmeric is a superstar! It's a great anti inflammatory.
Remember, these are estimates. It depends on what you throw in there.
Ready to get cooking? Remember, this Fish curry with rice recipe is all about having fun and making it your own.
Don't be afraid to experiment. You'll create something amazing. Get in there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best type of fish to use for this Madras Fish Curry Recipe? Can I use frozen fish?
For the best Madras Fish Curry, choose a firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia. These hold their shape well during cooking and absorb the delicious curry flavors. While fresh is always best, you can use frozen fish just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before marinating to avoid a watery curry.
Nobody wants a soggy bottom!
My Madras Fish Curry is too spicy/not spicy enough! How do I adjust the heat?
Spice levels in Madras curry powder can vary massively, so this is a common issue! If it's too spicy, add a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to cool things down. A little extra coconut milk can also help.
If it's not spicy enough, add more chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the curry while it's simmering. Remember, taste as you go you are the masterchef of your own kitchen!
Can I make this Madras Fish Curry recipe ahead of time? How long does it last?
Absolutely! Madras Fish Curry actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Store the curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
When reheating, gently warm it through on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the fish it will be drier if reheated multiple times.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Madras Fish Curry Recipe?
Yes, easily! You can substitute the fish with chickpeas or paneer for a delicious vegetarian option. Simply follow the recipe as written, replacing the fish with your chosen vegetable or protein. You might also consider adding some extra veggies like potatoes or cauliflower for added texture and flavor.
Chickpeas would add a lovely creaminess to the madras, just like the fish.
What's the best way to serve Madras Fish Curry? Any tips for side dishes?
Madras Fish Curry is fantastic served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A cooling cucumber raita (yogurt dip) is a classic accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the heat of the curry.
Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime for that final flourish presentation is key, after all!
Madras Fish Curry A Taste Of South India

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |