Goan Fish Curry
AI-generated image
Gluten-free Indian

Goan Fish Curry

Tender white fish gently simmered in a bright coconut sauce scented with toasted spices, tamarind, garlic, and ginger. This coastal Indian classic balances warmth, tang, and creamy richness without overwhelming the fish.

45 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Season the fish with half the salt and the turmeric, rubbing the mixture over all sides. Set aside for 10 minutes while you prepare the curry base.
2
Warm the coconut oil in a wide, heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden.
3
Add the ginger and garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the coriander and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spice.
4
Pour in the coconut milk, tamarind paste, and remaining salt. Stir well, bring just to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
5
Nestle the fish pieces into the sauce in a single layer. Spoon sauce over the tops, cover, and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, turning once if the pieces are thick, until the fish flakes easily and reaches 63°C/145°F at the center.
White fish fillets gently simmering in Goan coconut curry AI-generated image
6
Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch more salt or tamarind if needed. Scatter over the coriander and serve immediately with rice or flatbreads.

Why this recipe works

Blooming the spices in oil builds a fragrant base, while coconut milk softens their heat and tamarind supplies the sour edge that makes Goan fish curry distinctive. Adding the fish late preserves its moist, delicate texture.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate cooled curry in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Store rice separately and refrigerate it promptly.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a covered saucepan over low heat until the sauce is steaming and the fish reaches 74°C/165°F; avoid boiling, which can toughen the fish.

Nutrition / serving

452kcal
37.54 gprotein
12.06 gcarbs
30.62 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 20 Aug 2026 · updated 20 Aug 2026