Also Known As

• Meen Curry (മീൻ കറി) – This is the Malayalam name for Kerala Style Fish Curry, commonly prepared with local spices and coconut milk.
• Meen Mulakittathu (മീൻ മുളകിട്ടത്ത്) – Another name in Malayalam that highlights the use of red chili (mulaku) in the curry.
• Nadan Meen Curry (നാടൻ മീൻ കറി) – Refers to traditional Kerala-style fish curry, typically cooked in homes across Kerala.

Ingredients for Kerala Style Fish Curry

Directions for Kerala Style Fish Curry

Main Ingredients for Kerala Style Fish Curry

• Mackerel (ആയല / Ayala): This is the star of the dish, providing a rich and meaty texture. Mackerel is a flavorful fish that absorbs the spices and flavors of the curry beautifully.
• Shallots: These small, sweet onions add a distinct flavor to the curry. They are sautéed to release their natural sweetness and aroma, forming the base of the curry sauce.
• Tomato: Tomatoes lend a tangy sweetness and a slight acidity to the curry. They are cooked until soft and then blended with the shallots to create a smooth puree.
• Mustard Seeds and Fenugreek Seeds: These spices are tempered in hot oil to release their aromatic flavors. Mustard seeds provide a slight heat, while fenugreek seeds add a hint of bitterness.
• Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth and complexity to the curry. They are finely minced or grated and sautéed until fragrant.
• Curry Leaves: These leaves are a staple in South Indian cooking and add a unique flavor and aroma to the curry. They are added to the hot oil along with the other spices.
• Green Chilies: These provide heat and spice to the curry. They can be adjusted according to taste preferences.
• Turmeric, Coriander, and Red Chili Powder: These ground spices are essential for flavoring the curry. Turmeric adds a golden hue, coriander adds earthiness, and red chili powder provides heat.
• Tamarind Water: Tamarind water adds a tangy flavor to the curry, balancing the spices and enhancing the overall taste.
• Salt: Salt is used to season the curry, bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for Fish Curry without Coconut Milk

This Fish Curry pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice. The tangy and spicy flavors of the curry complement the mild and fluffy texture of the rice, making it an ideal base to soak up all the rich gravy. Additionally, it can be served with traditional Kerala sides like appam or puttu, which enhance the authentic experience. For a balanced meal, consider adding a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to offset the spiciness. To complete the meal, a serving of pappadam adds a delightful crunch.

Tips for Kerala Style Fish Curry without Coconut Milk

• Choose Fresh Mackerel: Opt for fresh mackerel that has a bright and clear appearance with firm flesh. Fresh fish will impart the best flavor to your curry.
• Clean the Fish Thoroughly: Ensure that the mackerel is cleaned thoroughly, removing any scales, guts, and fins. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili used.
• Temper the Spices Properly: Take care when tempering the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds to avoid burning them. Use medium heat and remove the pan from the heat as soon as the seeds start to crackle.
• Grind the Shallot-Tomato Puree Smoothly: Ensure that the shallots and tomatoes are ground into a smooth puree to achieve a silky texture in the curry.
• Use Fresh Curry Leaves: Fresh curry leaves impart a distinct flavor to the curry. If possible, use fresh curry leaves rather than dried ones for the best taste.
• Simmer the Curry: Allow the curry to simmer gently after adding the fish. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the fish cooks evenly without falling apart.
• Check for Doneness: To check if the fish is cooked, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fish. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is done.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the curry before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or tamarind water to balance the flavors according to your taste.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the curry to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop further and ensures a more flavorful dish.

Storage Tips for Fish Curry

Store leftover fish curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

People Also Ask About Kerala Style Fish Curry

Q. Can I use frozen mackerel for this fish curry recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen mackerel if fresh fish is not available. However, thaw the fish thoroughly in the refrigerator before using it in the recipe.

Q. How do I adjust the spice level of the curry?
A: You can adjust the spice level by varying the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder used in the fish curry recipe. For a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili or omit it entirely.

Q. Can I substitute curry leaves with dried ones?
A: While fresh curry leaves are preferred for their distinct flavor, you can use dried curry leaves if fresh ones are not available. However, the flavor may not be as intense.

Q. How do I make tamarind water?
A: To make tamarind water, soak a small ball of tamarind in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. Then, squeeze the tamarind pulp to extract the liquid, and discard the solids.

Q. What should I serve with Kerala Style Mackerel Fish Curry?
A: This curry pairs well with steamed rice, appam (rice pancakes), or dosa (savory crepes). You can also serve it with chapati or crusty bread for a delicious meal.

Recipe Suggestions

If you like this fish curry recipe, you might also like Kottayam Style Fish Curry.

Here are other Kerala recipe suggestions:
Kerala Egg Roast
Kerala Egg Curry

Have you tried this recipe?

Mention us @satyamskitchen and tag #satyamskitchenrecipes

Main Ingredients

• Pomfret (Whole, curry cut pieces): Pomfret is a popular variety of fish known for its delicate flavor and firm texture. It’s a staple in Bengali cuisine and adds richness to the curry. The curry-cut pieces allow for even cooking and better absorption of flavors.
• Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder is a key spice in Indian cooking known for its vibrant color and earthy flavor. It not only adds a beautiful golden hue to the dish but also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Mustard Oil: Mustard oil is commonly used in Bengali cuisine for its strong, pungent flavor. It adds depth to the curry and complements the other spices well. Additionally, mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and has various health benefits.
• Onion and Tomato: Onions and tomatoes form the base of the curry, providing sweetness and acidity respectively. They also add moisture and help create a flavorful gravy. Onions contribute to the caramelization process, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Ginger Garlic Paste: Ginger and garlic paste adds aromatic flavor and depth to the curry. It’s a common ingredient in Indian cooking, known for its ability to enhance the taste of dishes while also providing health benefits such as boosting immunity and aiding digestion.
• Red Chili Powder and Coriander Powder: Red chili powder and coriander powder are essential spices that add heat and warmth to the curry. They contribute to the overall flavor profile and balance the sweetness of the onions and the acidity of the tomatoes.

FAQs

Q. Can I use any other type of fish instead of Pomfret?
A: Yes, you can use other varieties of fish such as Rohu, Katla, or Hilsa to make this curry.

Q. Can I use any other oil for frying and cooking the curry?
A: Traditionally, mustard oil is used for its distinct flavor, but you can substitute it with any other cooking oil if desired.

Q. Can I adjust the spice level according to my preference?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder to suit your taste buds.

Q. Can I skip frying the fish and directly add it to the curry?
A: While frying the fish adds flavor and texture, you can skip this step and add the fish directly to the curry if you prefer a lighter version.

Q. Can I serve this curry with rice or bread?
A: Yes, Bengali fish curry pairs perfectly with steamed rice or Indian breads like roti or paratha.

Recipe Suggestions

• Sri Lankan Meen Kulambu
• Kottayam Style Fish Curry
• Goan Fish Curry

Have you tried this recipe?

Mention us @satyamskitchen and tag #satyamskitchenrecipes