Surmai Fish Curry Recipe: Easy & Tasty Indian Fish Curry

Surmai, or Indian Salmon, is a prized fish known for its rich, firm flesh and delicate flavor. This recipe unlocks the potential of this delicious ingredient with a vibrant and aromatic Surmai Fish Curry, a dish that perfectly balances the spice of India with the freshness of the sea. Forget bland, overcooked fish; this curry will tantalize your taste buds with its creamy coconut milk base, fragrant blend of spices, and tender, perfectly cooked Surmai. The depth of flavor is achieved through a careful balance of freshly ground spices and a simmering process that allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

This authentic Surmai Fish Curry recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey as we guide you through each step, ensuring a perfectly delicious Surmai Fish Curry every time. Ready to dive in? Let's begin with the step-by-step instructions!

Tools Needed

  • Pan
  • Mixer (optional)

Ingredients

  • Surmai fish: 400 gm (350 gm after cleaning)
  • Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
  • Coriander seeds: 1 teaspoon
  • Fenugreek seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic cloves: 10-12
  • Green chilies: 2
  • Curry leaves: a few sprigs
  • Onions: 2 medium
  • Tomatoes: 1 large
  • Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Kashmiri chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: to taste
  • Mustard oil: 1/3 cup
  • Tamarind pulp: 2 tablespoons
  • Water: 1 cup + 1/2 cup
  • Coriander leaves: lots, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Preparing the Spice Base

  • Grind cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fenugreek seeds together. You can use a mixer.
  • Finely chop 10-12 garlic cloves and add them to the ground spice mixture.
  • Add the prepared fish masala and fry until the oil separates.
Grind cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fenugreek seeds together. You can use a mixer.Finely chop 10-12 garlic cloves and add them to the ground spice mixture.Add the prepared fish masala and fry until the oil separates.
Preparing the Spice Base

Step 2. Sautéing Aromatics and Adding the Masala

  • Heat mustard oil in a pan. Add slit green chilies and curry leaves.
  • Add finely chopped onions and fry until golden brown.
  • Add ground tomato, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
Heat mustard oil in a pan. Add slit green chilies and curry leaves.Add finely chopped onions and fry until golden brown.Add ground tomato, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
Sautéing Aromatics and Adding the Masala

Step 3. Simmering the Curry

  • Add tamarind water (mix 2 tablespoons of tamarind pulp with 1 cup of water).
  • Add more water as needed for desired consistency (about 1/2 cup).
  • Bring to a boil, then add the fish pieces.
  • Cook covered on low flame for 2 minutes, then gently mix.
Add tamarind water (mix 2 tablespoons of tamarind pulp with 1 cup of water).Add more water as needed for desired consistency (about 1/2 cup).Bring to a boil, then add the fish pieces.
Simmering the Curry
  • Add chopped coriander, cover, and cook for another minute.

Step 4. Resting and Serving

  • Turn off the heat and let it rest for 3-4 minutes before serving.

Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe

Tips

  • Use the same green chilies that turn red after cooking. Break them into two and slit them from the middle.
  • Don't roast the spice mixture before grinding; grind it directly.
  • Kashmiri chili powder gives good color and less spiciness.
  • Don't stir the curry vigorously with a spoon once the fish is added as it's very soft; gently shake the pan instead.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of fish instead of Surmai?

Yes! Firm, white-fleshed fish like cod, snapper, or even firm tofu work well. Adjust cooking time depending on the fish's thickness.

2. What if I don't have fresh coconut milk?

You can substitute with full-fat canned coconut milk. Just make sure to shake the can well before using.

3. How can I make this curry spicier or milder?

For spicier curry, add more green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the green chilies altogether.


This Surmai Fish Curry recipe is a testament to the simple elegance of Indian cuisine. With its vibrant flavors and tender fish, it's a dish guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary journey!