Kiribati Fish Curry
A fragrant and flavorful fish curry, a staple in Kiribati cuisine, featuring fresh local fish simmered in coconut milk with aromatic spices and vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fresh white fish fillets(such as snapper or cod, cut into chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili flakes(or to taste)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 cup Leafy greens(such as spinach or local greens, chopped)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Lime juice(freshly squeezed)
- a handful Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and chili flakes. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant.
- 4
Add diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt to taste.
- 6
Carefully add the fish chunks to the simmering curry. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Avoid overcooking.
- 7
Stir in the chopped leafy greens and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- 8
Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest fish possible for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference.
- ✓If local greens are unavailable, spinach is a good substitute.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans along with the tomatoes.
- For a richer curry, use a mix of coconut milk and coconut cream.