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Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry Recipe

4.9 from 132 reviews

A tangy and flavorful Tomato & Tamarind Fish Curry that combines the rich acidity of tamarind with fresh tomatoes and aromatic spices, resulting in a comforting South Asian-style dish perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 500g firm white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into chunks

Tomato & Tamarind Sauce

  • 3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger and cook for a minute until fragrant.
  2. Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in turmeric, ground coriander, chili powder, and salt. Add chopped tomatoes and cook them down until they become soft and saucy, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add tamarind and water: Mix in tamarind paste and water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly for 10 minutes, adjusting consistency as needed.
  4. Cook the fish: Gently add the fish chunks into the simmering sauce. Cover the pan and cook for 7-10 minutes or until the fish is tender and cooked through, being careful not to over-stir to prevent breaking the fish.
  5. Finish and garnish: Taste the curry and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice or flatbreads.

Notes

  • Use firm white fish to avoid the fish breaking apart during cooking.
  • Tamarind paste can be adjusted according to your preferred level of tanginess.
  • For a spicier curry, increase the chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
  • This curry pairs well with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: tomato tamarind fish curry, South Asian fish curry, tangy fish curry recipe, easy fish curry, tamarind curry