Namibian Fish and Okra Curry
A flavorful curry featuring firm white fish and tender okra simmered in a rich, spiced coconut milk sauce. This dish reflects coastal influences and the use of readily available ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as kingklip, hake, or tilapia, cut into chunks)
- 300 g Okra(trimmed and cut into 2-3 cm pieces)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili powder(or to taste)
- 400 g Canned crushed tomatoes
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish chunks with salt.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 6
Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the okra and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the okra is tender but not mushy.
- 7
Gently add the seasoned fish chunks to the curry. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 8
Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
- 9
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander and serve hot, typically with rice or pap.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce sliminess from okra, you can lightly sauté it separately before adding to the curry, or rinse it under cold water after cutting.
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well during cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓For a thicker curry, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Include a diced bell pepper along with the onions for extra color and flavor.
- A squeeze of lime juice can be used instead of lemon.