Mchuzi wa Samaki na Tui la Nazi
Tanzanian Coconut Fish Curry
A flavorful and aromatic fish curry from Tanzania, featuring tender fish simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce with a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is a testament to the coastal influences on Tanzanian cuisine, often incorporating ingredients like tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a touch of tamarind for a balanced flavor profile. It's typically served with rice, ugali, or chapati.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Firm white fish fillets (e.g., tilapia, snapper, cod)(cut into chunks)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger(grated)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 2 tsp Madras curry powder
- 2 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 cup Full-fat coconut milk
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish fillets with 1 tsp of curry powder, 1 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Set aside.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large sauté pan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the remaining 1 tsp of curry powder, the remaining 1 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 5
Add the diced tomatoes and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down into a sauce.
- 6
Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 7
Gently place the seasoned fish chunks into the simmering sauce. Ensure the fish is submerged. Cover the pan and let it cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier curry, add a pinch of chili powder or a finely chopped fresh chili with the garlic and ginger.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes before adding the fish.
- ✓Firm white fish like tilapia, snapper, or cod work best as they hold their shape well during cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tamarind paste along with the coconut milk for a tangy flavor.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with boiled yucca or potatoes as an alternative to rice or ugali.