Embark on a culinary adventure with the tantalizing flavors of "Gulai Tumis Tamarind Fish Curry," a beloved dish from the heart of Indonesia! This vibrant curry showcases the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, making it an irresistible treat for your taste buds. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family and friends with a dish that bursts with exotic flavors and aromas. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously creamy and aromatic curry that will transport you straight to the bustling markets of Indonesia? Read on to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indonesian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fish fillets (e.g. mackerel)
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green chilies, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the fish by patting the fillets dry with paper towels and cutting them into 2-inch chunks. Season the fish pieces with salt and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste with 1/4 cup of warm water to create a smooth tamarind liquid. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften and extract maximum flavor.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and allow it to become hot.
- Sauté sliced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and green chilies, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle curry powder into the pan and stir quickly to toast the spices and release their aromatic oils, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the coconut milk and tamarind liquid, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully add the seasoned fish chunks to the curry sauce. Gently stir to coat the fish, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. The curry should have a balanced sweet, sour, and spicy flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the curry rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro leaves just before serving. Serve hot with steamed white rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Fish: Opt for firm white fish fillets like mackerel or snapper, as they hold up well in the curry and absorb the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, onions, and cilantro to enhance the dish's overall flavor and aroma.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the number of green chilies or remove the seeds before slicing.
- Perfect Coconut Milk: Stir the coconut milk well before adding it to ensure a creamy consistency and prevent separation.
- Let It Rest: Allow the curry to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together for an even more delicious dish.
- Serve with Sides: Complement your curry with steamed white rice or a side of fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh cilantro; it adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the curry beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 55mg
