​Malvani Fish Curry​

Malvani Fish Curry is a flavorful coastal dish from the Malvan region of Maharashtra, India. It features tender fish pieces cooked in a rich and aromatic coconut-based gravy, infused with spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and Malvani masala. This curry is known for its distinctive tanginess from tamarind and its bold, complex flavors. It’s often served with steamed rice or traditional Malvani bhakri for a satisfying meal that celebrates the coastal cuisine of India.

Here’s a recipe to make Malvani Fish Curry:

Ingredients:

• 500 grams fish fillets (any firm-fleshed fish like kingfish, pomfret, or snapper), cut into pieces
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon Malvani masala (or use a combination of garam masala and red chili powder)
• Tamarind pulp (size of a small lemon), soaked in water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Oil for cooking
• Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until onions turn golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
5. Add grated coconut and continue to cook for a few minutes until the coconut starts to change color slightly.
6. Once the mixture cools down, blend it into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. You can add a little water if needed to facilitate blending.
7. Transfer the blended paste back to the pan. Add turmeric powder, Malvani masala, salt, and tamarind pulp along with the soaking water. Mix well.
8. Add water to achieve your desired consistency of the curry. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
9. Once the curry starts simmering, add the fish pieces and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the curry thickens slightly.
10. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or Malvani style bhakri (flatbread made from rice flour or millet flour).

Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of Malvani Fish Curry, a delightful coastal delicacy!