Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry Recipe
This Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry is a tangy and flavorful coastal Indian dish that blends the richness of tamarind and fresh tomatoes with aromatic spices. The fish is simmered gently in the sauce until tender and infused with bold, savory flavors, making it a perfect meal served with rice or flatbread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 500g firm white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into pieces
Tomato Base
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 cup water
Spices & Flavorings
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the spice base: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Then add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent and aromatic.
- Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in turmeric, coriander, and chili powders. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook down until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Mix tamarind paste with water and pour into the pan. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes to develop flavor and thicken slightly.
- Cook the fish: Add fish pieces to the simmering sauce. Cover the pan and cook gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender, being careful not to over-stir to avoid breaking the fish.
- Finish and serve: Adjust salt to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving hot with steamed rice or Indian bread.
Notes
- Use firm white fish that hold shape well during cooking.
- Adjust tamarind paste quantity based on desired tartness.
- Serve immediately for best texture of the fish.
- For a spicier curry, increase chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
Keywords: tomato tamarind fish curry, Indian fish curry, tangy fish curry, tamarind fish recipe, coastal Indian cuisine
