Kenyan Coconut Fish Curry
Mchuzi wa Samaki
A fragrant and mildly spiced fish curry made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and a blend of East African spices, often served with rice or ugali.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(e.g., tilapia, snapper, cod, cut into chunks)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch piece Fresh ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 0.5 cup Water
- 1 tbsp Lime or lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a thick paste.
- 4
Add the curry powder, turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the onion and tomato mixture and toast the spices for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- 6
Carefully add the fish pieces to the simmering sauce. Gently spoon some sauce over the fish. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the fish from breaking apart.
- 7
Stir in the lime or lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or ugali.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm white fish that holds its shape well during cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped bell peppers or green beans for extra vegetables.
- A tablespoon of tamarind paste can be added for a tangy flavor.
- Serve with chapati instead of rice.