Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret with Tamarind Chutney

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"Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret with Tamarind Chutney features a whole pomfret marinated in coconut milk and curry paste, fried to a crispy perfection, and served with a tangy tamarind chutney. Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, this dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors."
-- @hecooksco

Recipe Description

Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret with Tamarind Chutney is a vibrant fusion dish that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. It’s nothing short of a masterpiece that marries the vibrant flavors of Thai, Malaysian, and Indian cuisines, creating a dish that’s as inspiring as it is delicious. Combining creamy coconut milk with robust curry paste, the marinade offers a balance of sweetness and spice that penetrates the fish, enhancing its natural taste. The coconut milk tenderizes the pomfret, ensuring a succulent and juicy texture, while the curry paste adds layers of aromatic spices. This marination process is critical to creating a flavorful and aromatic foundation for the dish. After marinating, the pomfret is lightly coated in cornstarch to create a light, crunchy crust when fried. This frying process results in a beautifully crisp exterior, contrasting perfectly with the tender, flavorful flesh inside. Made by simmering tamarind pulp with water, freshly squeezed lime juice, brown sugar, chili powder, and a touch of salt, the tamarind chutney strikes a lovely balance between acidity and sweetness. The tamarind provides a distinctive tang, the lime juice adds brightness, and the brown sugar introduces a subtle sweetness. This flavorful chutney complements the fried fish and adds a refreshing contrast that elevates the overall dining experience. The crispy fried pomfret is served with the tamarind chutney and garnished with fresh cilantro. Lime wedges are provided on the side, allowing diners to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra layer of zesty flavor. Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret with Tamarind Chutney is a dish that engages all the senses. The visual appeal of the golden-brown fish, the vibrant colors of the garnishes, and the rich, aromatic scent of the curry and coconut are just the beginning. The first bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by the tender, flavorful flesh of the pomfret. The tangy tamarind chutney adds complexity and excitement to each bite, making this dish a memorable culinary adventure that you’ll want to experience again and again. This dish represents a fusion of Southeast Asian culinary traditions, combining elements from Thai, Malaysian, and Indian cuisines. Using coconut milk and curry paste highlights the tropical flavors typical of Southeast Asian cooking, while the tamarind chutney brings in the tangy, spicy notes beloved in Indian cuisine. This harmonious blend of flavors and techniques showcases the versatility of pomfret and the region’s rich culinary heritage. Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret with Tamarind Chutney delights the palate and celebrates Southeast Asian culinary traditions. It’s perfect for exploring bold, aromatic flavors and enjoying a truly unique dining experience.
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  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 45mins
Cook time: 30mins
Serves or Makes: 4

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Coconut Curry Fried Pomfret

  • 1 whole pomfret
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • for garnish fresh cilantro
  • for serving lime wedge

ingredients

For the Tamarind Chutney

  • 1/2 cup tamarind pulp
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste salt

Method

  • Step 1

    Marinate the Fish: Mix the coconut milk and curry paste until well combined. Marinate the cleaned, whole pomfret in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.

  • Step 2

    Prepare the Tamarind Chutney: Combine the tamarind pulp and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Add brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Simmer until the mixture has thickened, 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

  • Step 3

    Fry the Fish: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat. Remove the fish from the marinade and dip it into the cornstarch. Shake off any excess cornstarch. Fry the fish until golden brown and crispy, 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  • Step 4

    Serve: Serve the fried pomfret with the homemade tamarind chutney on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

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