Goan Fish Curry is a simple yet delightful dish with a crispy exterior and succulent fish on the inside. The recipe combines Barramundi fish, aromatic spices, and coconut curry paste to create a mouth-watering dish that will impress all. With its irresistible textures and flavours, this recipe is perfect for...

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
25min
Total Time
40min
Goan Fish Curry  recipe

Ingredients

6 Servings

For Marination

  • 5
    Barramundi Fillets (approx.200gm each)
  • 1 1/2tbsp
    Ginger Garlic Paste
  • 1tbsp
    Coriander Powder
  • 1/2tsp
    Cumin Powder
  • 1/2tsp
    Turmeric
  • 1/2tsp
    Garam Masala
  • 1/2tsp
    Salt
  • 2tbsp
    Lemon Juice

For Curry Paste

  • 1cup
    desiccated Coconut
  • 4
    Dry Red Chillies
  • 1tbsp
    Cumin Seeds
  • 1 1/2tbsp
    Coriander Seeds
  • 2in
    Ginger
  • 8clove
    Garlic
  • 2tbsp
    Tamarind Pulp
  • 1/2tbsp
    Turmeric
  • 1/2tbsp
    Salt
  • Water (as required)

For Cooking

  • 1/2cup
    Oil (divided)
  • 2
    medium-sized Onions (ground)
  • 3
    medium-hot Green Chillies (slit)
  • 3cup
    water
  • 1tsp
    Sugar

How to make Goan Fish Curry

For Marination

  1. Rinse the barramundi fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut the fillet in halve and set aside.

  2. Marinate the fish with ginger garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder (roasted and coarsely ground), turmeric, garam masala, salt and lemon juice. Refrigerate the marinated fish for 15-20 minutes.

    Step 1.1: Marinate the fish with ginger garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder (roasted and coarsely ground), turmeric, garam masala, salt and lemon juice
    Step 1.2: Marinate the fish with ginger garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder (roasted and coarsely ground), turmeric, garam masala, salt and lemon juice
    Step 1.3: Marinate the fish with ginger garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder (roasted and coarsely ground), turmeric, garam masala, salt and lemon juice
  3. Heat 4-5 tbsp of oil in a flat pan over medium-high heat.

  4. Add the marinated fish to the oil one at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

    Step 1.1: Add the marinated fish to the oil one at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan
  5. Allow the fish to cook untouched for a few minutes until they become crisp. Then, gently flip them with a spatula and continue frying until they turn golden on both sides.

    Step 1.1: Allow the fish to cook untouched for a few minutes until they become crisp
  6. Transfer the fried fish to a plate and set aside.

    Step 1.1: Transfer the fried fish to a plate and set aside

For Curry Paste

  1. Combine desiccated coconut, dry red chillies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, ginger, garlic cloves, tamarind pulp, turmeric, salt and water as required. Grind it into a fine smooth paste. Set it aside.

    Step 2.1: Combine desiccated coconut, dry red chillies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, ginger, garlic cloves, tamarind pulp, turmeric, salt and water as required

For Cooking

  1. Heat β…“ cup oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet on high heat.

  2. Add the ground onions and green chillies and stir. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the onions turn golden brown.

    Step 3.1: Add the ground onions and green chillies and stir
    Step 3.2: Add the ground onions and green chillies and stir
  3. Add the coconut curry paste to the skillet and mix well. Cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously.

    Step 3.1: Add the coconut curry paste to the skillet and mix well
  4. Pour 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes until you achieve the desired consistency. Stir occasionally.

    Step 3.1: Pour 3 cups of water and bring to a boil
    Step 3.2: Pour 3 cups of water and bring to a boil
  5. Add the fried fish and sugar to the skillet, stir and cook for 3-4 minutes on medium heat.

    Step 3.1: Add the fried fish and sugar to the skillet, stir and cook for 3-4 minutes on medium heat
  6. Once done, transfer the fish curry to a platter, garnish and serve hot with rice or roti.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chillies.

  2. The number of servings for this recipe may vary depending on the portion size served.

  3. You can make this recipe with the fish of your choice.

FAQS

  1. How do I properly marinate Barramundi fish for Goan Fish Curry?

    To marinate Barramundi fish for Goan Fish Curry, rinse the fillets and pat them dry. Then, mix ginger garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl. Coat the fish with this mixture and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

  2. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Goan Fish Curry?

    If you don't have Barramundi, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like cod or tilapia. For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or paneer. If tamarind pulp is unavailable, you can use lime juice or vinegar for acidity. Additionally, you can adjust the spice levels by using fewer green chillies or opting for milder spices.

  3. How can I store leftover Goan Fish Curry?

    To store leftover Goan Fish Curry, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain consistency.

  4. What dishes pair well with Goan Fish Curry?

    Goan Fish Curry pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or fluffy roti. You can also serve it with a side of coconut rice or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of pickles or a cooling cucumber raita.

  5. What is the cooking process for achieving crispy fish in Goan Fish Curry?

    To achieve crispy fish in Goan Fish Curry, heat oil in a flat pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated fish fillets one at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the fish untouched for a few minutes until they are golden brown on one side, then gently flip them to cook the other side. This method ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the fish succulent inside.

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Leena Kohli

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