RecipesTongaTongan Fish Curry with Coconut

Tongan Fish Curry with Coconut

A fragrant and mildly spiced fish curry, rich with coconut milk and local vegetables, showcasing the fresh seafood of Tonga.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Tongan Fish Curry with Coconut - Tonga traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as snapper or mahi-mahi, cut into chunks)
  • 2 tbsp Coconut oil
  • 1 medium Onion(chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 inch Ginger(grated)
  • 1 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp Curry powder
  • 400 g Tomatoes(diced)
  • 400 ml Coconut milk
  • 100 ml Vegetable broth
  • 150 g Green beans(trimmed and cut)
  • 1 medium Bell pepper(sliced)
  • to taste Salt
  • a handful Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
  • for serving Lime wedges

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

    💡 Tip: Using coconut oil complements the other tropical flavors.
  2. 2

    Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add turmeric and curry powder, cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

  5. 5

    Add diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.

    💡 Tip: Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly.
  6. 6

    Add green beans and bell pepper, cook for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.

  7. 7

    Gently add the fish pieces to the simmering curry. Cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Do not overcook.

    💡 Tip: The residual heat will continue to cook the fish.
  8. 8

    Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of curry powder to your spice preference.
  • Other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or sweet potato can be added.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier curry.
  • Serve with steamed rice or taro for a complete meal.

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