Surmai Curry Recipe

Introduction:

Surmai Curry, also known as Kingfish Curry, is a popular dish along the western coast of India. This fish curry is cherished for its rich and tangy flavors, perfectly complementing the firm texture of the Surmai (Kingfish). Made with a blend of traditional spices, coconut milk, and tamarind, this curry is a staple in many coastal homes, offering a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Fish:

4-5 pieces of Surmai (Kingfish), cleaned

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

3-4 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 3-4 pieces of kokum

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Fish:

Clean the Surmai pieces thoroughly and marinate them with turmeric powder and salt. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Preparing the Curry Base:

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

Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

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

Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder to the pan. Cook the spices for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly to prevent them from burning.

Cooking the Surmai:

Gently add the marinated Surmai pieces to the pan. Sauté the fish lightly for 2-3 minutes to coat them with the masala.

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

Add tamarind paste or kokum and adjust the salt to taste. Allow the curry to simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, letting the fish cook thoroughly and the flavors to meld.

Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle garam masala powder over the curry and stir gently.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serving:

Serve the Surmai Curry hot with steamed rice, chapati, or naan. The combination of the tender fish and the flavorful curry makes for a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

Surmai Curry is a quintessential dish that captures the essence of coastal Indian cuisine. The firm and flavorful Kingfish, combined with the rich and aromatic curry, makes this dish a favorite among seafood lovers. Whether enjoyed with rice or bread, Surmai Curry offers a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit at your dining table. This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers a taste that’s complex and deeply satisfying, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Indian seafood dishes.