Fish Moilee, also known as Fish Molee or Meen Moilee, is a popular South Indian dish, particularly from the Kerala region. It’s a mild and flavorful fish curry made with coconut milk, spices, and usually a white fish such as kingfish or pomfret. Here’s a basic recipe for Fish Moilee:
Ingredients:
- 500 grams white fish fillets (such as kingfish or pomfret), cut into pieces
- 1 cup thick coconut milk
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1-inch piece ginger, julienned
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped cilantro leaves for garnish
For the spice paste:
- 1/2 cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 2-3 green chilies
- 3-4 cloves garlic
- 1-inch piece ginger
Instructions:
- Make the spice paste: In a blender or food processor, combine grated coconut, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Blend into a smooth paste by adding a little water if needed.
- Heat coconut oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add sliced onions, green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
- Add the spice paste to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until the raw smell of the spices disappears.
- Add turmeric powder and red chili powder (if using). Mix well.
- Pour in the thick coconut milk and mix gently. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the fish pieces to the pan, making sure they are submerged in the coconut milk mixture. Cook gently for 6-8 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Season with salt to taste and add lemon juice if desired. Be gentle while stirring to avoid breaking the fish pieces.
- Garnish with curry leaves and chopped cilantro leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or appam (South Indian rice pancakes).
Fish Moilee is a delicious and comforting dish with a delicate balance of flavors. Adjust the spiciness according to your preference. Enjoy your culinary journey into South Indian cuisine!
