RecipesMauritiusCari Poisson

Cari Poisson

A flavorful and aromatic fish curry, a staple in Mauritian cuisine. It typically features fresh fish simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with a blend of local spices.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Cari Poisson - Mauritius traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as sea bass, snapper, or cod, cut into chunks)
  • 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
  • 1 inch Ginger(grated)
  • 400 g Tomatoes(chopped or crushed)
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Curry powder
  • 1 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp Chili flakes(or to taste)
  • 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 200 ml Water or fish stock
  • 1/4 cup Fresh coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Season the fish chunks with salt and pepper.

    💡 Tip: Allow the fish to marinate for about 10 minutes.
  2. 2

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

    ⏱️ 7 minutes
  3. 3

    Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    ⏱️ 1 minute
  4. 4

    Stir in the curry powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
    💡 Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their flavor.
  5. 5

    Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened.

    ⏱️ 7 minutes
  6. 6

    Pour in the water or fish stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

  7. 7

    Gently add the seasoned fish chunks to the simmering sauce. Ensure the fish is mostly submerged.

    💡 Tip: Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as this can break up the fish.
  8. 8

    Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

    ⏱️ 15 minutes
    💡 Tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish pieces.
  9. 9

    Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use fresh, good-quality fish for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of chili to your preference for heat.
  • A splash of lime juice at the end can add a bright, fresh note.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a few curry leaves along with the onions for an extra layer of aroma.
  • Include diced bell peppers or okra for added vegetables.
  • For a creamier curry, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.

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