The aroma of fish curry bubbling away on the stove is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine tender pieces of fish simmering in a rich, spiced sauce that envelops you like a warm hug. The colors dance together in your pot, with vibrant reds, sunny yellows, and fresh greens inviting you to dive in.
I can almost hear the laughter of my family as they gather around the table, eager to dig into this delightful dish. Fish curry has a special place in my heart; it reminds me of Sunday family dinners where everyone would share stories between bites. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll crave it for every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This fish curry is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing even novice cooks to impress their guests
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of spices that creates an unforgettable taste sensation
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it will brighten up any dinner table
- This dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike
My friends often tease me about how I can never get enough of fish curry; it’s always a hit at our gatherings.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Fish Fillets: Choose firm white fish like cod or tilapia for the best texture and flavor.
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Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess and richness that balances the spices perfectly.
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Onions: Chop them finely; they add sweetness when sautéed and create a lovely base for your curry.
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Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor and aroma of your curry.
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Spices: A mix of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder gives depth and warmth to the dish.
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Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
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Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime at the end brightens everything up and adds a zesty kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Rinse your fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. The kitchen will smell absolutely divine right now.
Spice It Up!: Sprinkle in turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onions evenly; cook for another minute until everything gets cozy.
Pour in Coconut Milk: Slowly add coconut milk while stirring to combine all flavors smoothly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while enjoying its creamy texture.
Add Fish Fillets: Gently nestle your fish fillets into the sauce. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork; resist the urge to stir too much!
Finish with Lime Juice & Cilantro: Squeeze lime juice over the dish just before serving. Top with freshly chopped cilantro for an aromatic finish that brightens every bite.
Now you’ve got yourself a delicious fish curry that’s sure to impress! Enjoy it with rice or naan—just be ready for compliments!
You Must Know
- Fish curry is a delightful dish bursting with flavor
- Pay attention to the spices, as they can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary
- The aroma of simmering spices is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the fish for at least 30 minutes. Sauté your spices first, then add coconut milk and fish. Simmer gently for perfect texture and flavor.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the fish for shrimp or tofu if preferred. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also personalize your curry experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover fish curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat on the stove for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a perfectly balanced fish curry, always taste as you cook and adjust seasoning gradually
- Fresh herbs added at the end can brighten flavors significantly
- Using a mix of fresh and dried spices enhances depth and complexity in your dish
Sharing my first attempt at fish curry was a hilarious disaster; my friends laughed but loved it! Their compliments encouraged me to master this dish over time.

FAQ
What type of fish is best for fish curry?
Firm white fish like cod or tilapia works wonderfully in fish curry.
Can I make fish curry ahead of time?
Absolutely! Fish curry tastes even better when reheated after a day in the fridge.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of fish curry?
Yes! Use vegetables or tofu as a substitute while keeping the same flavorful sauce.
Fish Curry
Fish curry is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals straight to your table. With tender fish fillets simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, every bite is a burst of flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, captivating your family and friends alike. Enjoy the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh fish fillets (cod or tilapia)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Rinse fish fillets and pat dry.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Spice It Up: Mix in turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder; cook for another minute.
- Pour in Coconut Milk: Gradually add coconut milk while stirring; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Fish Fillets: Carefully place fish fillets into the sauce; cook for 8–10 minutes until fish flakes easily.
- Finish with Lime Juice & Cilantro: Squeeze lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg





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