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.
🧂 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
Season the fish chunks with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Allow the fish to marinate for about 10 minutes. - 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
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 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
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
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
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
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
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.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- 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.