Pomfret Curry Recipe

Introduction:

Pomfret Curry is a delicious and aromatic fish curry made with fresh pomfret, a popular fish along the coastal regions of India. Known for its delicate texture and mild flavor, pomfret pairs beautifully with a spicy and tangy curry base made from coconut, tamarind, and a blend of traditional spices. This curry is a staple in many coastal households, offering a burst of flavors that perfectly complements the subtle taste of the fish.

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Ingredients:

For the Fish:

2 medium-sized pomfret fish, cleaned and cut into pieces

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For the Curry:

2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon garam masala powder

1 cup coconut milk

1 tablespoon tamarind paste or 2-3 pieces of kokum

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Fish:

Clean the pomfret thoroughly and cut it into pieces. Marinate the fish with turmeric powder and salt. Set it aside for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Preparing the Curry:

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of the ginger-garlic paste disappears.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder to the mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure the spices are well incorporated.

Cooking the Fish:

Gently add the marinated pomfret pieces to the pan, taking care not to break the fish. Sauté the fish lightly for 2-3 minutes to coat it with the masala.

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to mix everything together. Bring the curry to a gentle simmer.

Add the tamarind paste or kokum and salt to taste. Let the curry simmer for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the fish to cook fully and the gravy to thicken.

Final Touches:

Sprinkle garam masala powder over the curry and stir gently.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serving:

Serve the Pomfret Curry hot with steamed rice, chapati, or bhakri. The combination of the tender pomfret and the rich, flavorful curry makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Conclusion:

Pomfret Curry is a classic dish that showcases the best of coastal Indian cuisine. The tender, flaky pomfret is perfectly complemented by the spicy and tangy curry, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This dish is a must-try for seafood lovers and is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served with rice or bread, Pomfret Curry is a versatile and delicious meal that brings the taste of the coast to your table.