Solomon Islands Banana and Fish Curry
A fragrant and flavorful curry featuring fresh fish and ripe bananas cooked in creamy coconut milk with aromatic spices. This dish balances the savory notes of the fish with the natural sweetness of the banana, creating a unique and comforting meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fresh white fish fillets(such as snapper or mahi-mahi, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 medium Ripe bananas(peeled and sliced)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Curry powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1 optional Fresh chili(finely chopped, for heat)
- Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the curry powder and turmeric powder, cooking for about 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the salt and chopped fresh chili (if using).
- 5
Gently add the fish pieces to the simmering coconut milk mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the fish from breaking apart.
- 6
Add the sliced ripe bananas to the pot and gently stir them in. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the bananas are heated through and slightly softened. Be careful not to mash the bananas.
- 7
Stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- 8
Serve the banana and fish curry hot, garnished with fresh coriander. It is traditionally served with rice or boiled root vegetables like taro or cassava.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm, ripe bananas that hold their shape when cooked.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓Do not overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker curry, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes after adding the fish and bananas.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- For a richer flavor, a small amount of fish stock can be added along with the coconut milk.
- A pinch of sugar can be added if you prefer a slightly sweeter curry.