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Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry Recipe

4.7 from 72 reviews

A tangy and flavorful Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry that combines the richness of tamarind paste with fresh tomatoes and aromatic spices, resulting in a mildly spiced, comforting dish perfect for serving with rice or flatbreads.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish Curry Ingredients

  • 500g firm white fish fillets, cut into pieces
  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • 200ml water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tempering: Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and sauté until they begin to pop.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onions turn golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in turmeric, chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook for a minute to release their aroma, then add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and begin to break down.
  4. Add tamarind paste and water: Mix in tamarind paste and pour in water. Stir to combine, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add fish: Gently place the fish pieces into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 minutes until the fish is cooked through and tender.
  6. Season and garnish: Add salt to taste, stir gently to combine without breaking the fish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Use firm white fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper for best results.
  • Adjust chili powder to your heat preference.
  • Tamarind paste can be substituted with lemon juice for a different sour note, though flavor will vary.
  • Serve with steamed basmati rice or Indian flatbreads like chapati or naan.
  • For a richer curry, coconut milk can be added along with water to balance the sourness.

Keywords: tomato tamarind fish curry, Indian fish curry, tangy fish curry, tamarind curry, seafood curry recipe