Homemade fish curry masala

Fish kulambu masala

Organic fish gravy masala

Fish masala, or fish kulambu masala, is a flavorful blend used to make rich, aromatic fish curries. This homemade masala combines spices that complement fish perfectly, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Here’s a recipe for a natural, homemade fish masala powder:

Homemade Fish Masala Powder

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
• 1-2 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• 1 tsp dried curry leaves (optional)
• 1 tsp cloves
• 1-2 green cardamom pods
• 1 small cinnamon stick

Instructions:

Roast Whole Spices:

• • Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
  • Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick.
  • Roast, stirring frequently, until the spices become aromatic and slightly darker. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.

Cool and Grind:

• • Allow the roasted spices to cool completely.
  • Once cooled, grind them to a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Add Ground Spices:

• • Mix in the turmeric powder, paprika or red chili powder, and dried curry leaves (if using).

Store:

• • Store the fish masala powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will stay fresh for several months.

Using Fish Masala in Fish Kulambu (Fish Curry)

Ingredients:

• 500g fish fillets (e.g., tilapia, cod, or your preferred type)
• 2 tbsp fish masala powder
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)
• 1 cup coconut milk (or 1/2 cup grated coconut blended with water)
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste or 1-2 tbsp tamarind pulp
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Fish:

• • Clean and cut the fish into pieces. Marinate with a little salt and some of the fish masala powder. Set aside.

Cook the Base:

• • Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or pot.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  • Add green chilies (if using) and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil begins to separate.

Add Spices:

• • Stir in the remaining fish masala powder. Cook for a couple of minutes to blend the spices with the tomato-onion mixture.

Add Coconut Milk and Tamarind:

• • Pour in the coconut milk and tamarind paste. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Cook the Fish:

• • Gently add the marinated fish pieces to the pan. Cook on medium heat until the fish is cooked through and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to stir too vigorously to avoid breaking the fish pieces.

Garnish and Serve:

• • Garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread.

This homemade fish masala will enhance the flavor of your fish curry, making it aromatic and deeply satisfying. Enjoy your cooking!