When it comes to seafood, India has a rich tradition of preparing delectable dishes that showcase its diverse regional flavors. Fish is a staple ingredient in many Indian cuisines, and with its versatility, it’s no wonder why there are countless ways to cook and enjoy it. From the spicy curries of the south to the delicate flavors of the north, Indian fish recipes offer a world of options for seafood lovers.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across India to explore 20 authentic fish recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy or light and flavorful, these recipes are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the world of Indian fish cooking and discover some mouthwatering dishes to try!
Spicy Goan Fish Curry
This classic Goan fish curry recipe is a staple of Indian cuisine, with its bold flavors and spices that will leave you craving for more. A perfect blend of spicy and tangy, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2-3 green chilies, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden.
2. Add garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until they flake easily with a fork (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in coconut milk and green chilies. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tandoori Fish Tikka
Experience the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Tandoori Fish Tikka. Marinated in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fish fillets (such as salmon or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the fish pieces to the marinade, mixing well to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the fish from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Moilee from Kerala
Moilee is a popular fish curry dish from the coastal regions of Kerala. This recipe uses traditional spices and coconut milk to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2-3 green chilies, slit
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, chilies, and ginger. Saute until the onions are translucent.
3. Add fish pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they’re cooked through.
4. Add cumin powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Mix well.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bengali Fish Paturi
Fish Paturi is a popular Bengali dish that originated from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal. This simple yet flavorful recipe has been passed down through generations and is loved by people all over the world.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of fish (any white fish works well), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mustard paste (or substitute with Indian-style mustard)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the mustard paste and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
4. Add the fish pieces and stir well to coat with the tomato-mustard mixture.
5. Add salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder (if using). Stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Amritsari Fish Fry
Amritsari Fish Fry: A flavorful and crispy fish dish that’s a staple of Punjabi cuisine. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the bold flavors of Amritsar!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish pieces (catfish or tilapia work well)
– 1/2 cup Gram flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup yogurt
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp red chili powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the fish pieces in a mixture of Gram flour, cornstarch, lemon juice, yogurt, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, salt, and red chili powder for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Remove the fish pieces from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Fry the fish pieces until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain the fried fish on paper towels and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malabar Fish Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Kerala with this classic Malabar Fish Curry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3-4 green chilies, slit
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, chilies, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent.
2. Add curry leaves, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
3. Add fish pieces; cook for 5-7 minutes or until they’re cooked through.
4. Pour in coconut milk. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve over rice or with roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish Biryani with Basmati Rice
Experience the aromatic flavors of India with this flavorful fish biryani recipe, perfectly cooked with basmati rice and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fish fillets (any white fish), cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, fish pieces, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Drain the rice and add it to the pan with 2 cups of water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in chopped cilantro and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chettinad Fish Masala
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Chettinad cuisine with the tender juiciness of fish, resulting in a dish that’s both aromatic and appetizing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this fish masala is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (such as tilapia or cod)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons Chettinad spice blend (available at most Indian grocery stores)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until coated with the spice mixture.
4. Add Chettinad spice blend and salt. Mix well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Punjabi Fish Pakora
A classic Punjabi snack, fish pakora is a delightful combination of crispy fried fish and flavorful spices. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, red chili powder, and garam masala powder.
2. Add the fish pieces to the flour mixture and coat them evenly.
3. Dip each coated fish piece into lemon juice and then roll it in the flour mixture again.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry the fish pakora until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with a sprinkle of cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Korma with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tender flakes of fish, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish pieces; cook until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Masala Fried Pomfret
Experience the bold flavors of India with this aromatic and spicy recipe that pairs perfectly with a side of steamed rice or roti. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this masala fried pomfret is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pomfrets (500g each)
– 1/2 cup Gram flour
– 1/4 cup Cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon Salt
– 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
– 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 small Onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon Garam Masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the pomfrets in a mixture of gram flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, lemon juice, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the marinated pomfrets until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).
3. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion and garam masala powder for 1 minute.
5. Add the fried pomfrets to the pan and toss with the onion-garam masala mixture.
6. Sprinkle red chili powder and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Pulao with Saffron
This aromatic rice dish combines the delicate flavor of fish with the warmth of saffron, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The saffron adds a subtle yellow hue and a hint of earthy sweetness to this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 fish fillet (white or pink), cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add fish pieces; cook until opaque.
4. Add rice and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in soaked saffron threads and salt.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish Cutlets with Mint Chutney
A refreshing twist on traditional fish cutlets, this recipe combines the tender goodness of fish with a tangy and cooling mint chutney.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (cod or tilapia work well)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mint chutney ingredients:
+ 1 cup fresh mint leaves
+ 1/2 cup green chili peppers
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and cheese.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, blend mint chutney ingredients together until smooth. Serve warm with baked fish cutlets.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Curry with Tamarind
This recipe combines the richness of fish with the tanginess of tamarind, creating a mouthwatering curry that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish pieces (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until they’re translucent.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish pieces and cook until they’re coated with the spice mixture.
5. Stir in tamarind paste and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Fish with Indian Spices
Elevate your grilled fish game with the bold flavors of India! This simple recipe combines the richness of spices with the freshness of citrus, resulting in a dish that’s both aromatic and savory.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 tbsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and the spice blend.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with lemon juice and garlic during the last minute of cooking.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Stir-Fry with Mustard Seeds
This simple and flavorful fish stir-fry is a great way to cook fish without overpowering its delicate taste. The addition of mustard seeds adds a unique and aromatic flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the fish fillets; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Add the bell peppers and mustard seeds; stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Curry with Fenugreek Leaves
This curry combines the delicate flavor of fish with the earthy taste of fenugreek leaves, a popular ingredient in many Indian recipes. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1/4 cup fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish fillets and cook until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in fenugreek leaves and coconut milk. Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Fish Curry with Kokum
This fish curry recipe is a creative spin on the classic fish curries, adding the unique flavor and tartness of kokum. The combination of tender fish, aromatic spices, and tangy kokum will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons kokum syrup or dried kokum powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add fish and cook until opaque.
4. Add diced tomatoes, water, kokum syrup/powder, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Fry with Lemon and Garlic
This refreshing fish fry recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge fish fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove fish from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and minced garlic.
7. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture over the fried fish fillets.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Curry with Coconut and Curry Leaves
This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the richness of coconut milk and the aroma of curry leaves, creating a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (white or black pomfret, tilapia, or cod), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 10-12 curry leaves, fresh or dried
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the fish pieces and cook until they start to flake apart.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir well. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add curry leaves. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of India with these 20 mouth-watering fish recipes! From Spicy Goan Fish Curry to Tandoori Fish Tikka, and from Fish Moilee from Kerala to Punjabi Fish Pakora, this collection brings together a diverse range of traditional Indian dishes. Explore the bold flavors of Amritsari Fish Fry, Malabar Fish Curry, and Chettinad Fish Masala, or try your hand at making Fish Biryani with Basmati Rice, Fish Korma with Coconut Milk, and more. With these authentic recipes, you’ll be transported to the spices and streets of India!
