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Fiji · Homemade, your way

Fijian-Inspired Coconut Fish Curry

Simmer Fijian-inspired coconut fish curry with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and mild spices. Tender white fish makes a comforting one-pot meal with rice.

Prep time
15 min
Cook time
22 min
Total time
37 min
Servings
4
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One PotFamily Friendly
Kerala-style fish curry with coconut milk; a serving variation for this Fijian-inspired recipe.
Photo: Sandra Sivanandan · Source · CC BY-SA 4.0. Kerala-style fish curry with coconut milk; a serving variation for this Fijian-inspired recipe.

This coconut fish curry takes inspiration from the coconut-rich cooking and Indian culinary influences found in Fiji. It is a simplified home version using mild supermarket curry powder rather than a claim to one traditional preparation. Firm white fish holds together when added near the end of cooking. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and turn the pieces carefully. Lime juice brightens the finished dish, and four servings pair naturally with plain rice.

Let’s make it

Fijian-Inspired Coconut Fish Curry

Serves 4 · Prep 15 min · Cook 22 min · Total 37 min

Ingredients

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Heat oil in a wide saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion for 5 minutes, then stir in garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
  2. Add curry powder, turmeric, and salt; stir for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until starting to soften.
  3. Pour in coconut milk and measured water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Nestle fish into the sauce. Simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the thickest pieces reach 145°F (63°C).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice carefully. Divide into four bowls, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve hot.

A few kitchen notes

  • Large fish pieces are easier to turn without breaking.
  • A gentle simmer keeps the fish tender and intact.

Ingredient substitutions

  • Replace cod with the same weight of tilapia or haddock; cook to 145°F (63°C).

Storage & reheating

Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Freeze for 1 month; thaw refrigerated and reheat gently to 165°F (74°C).

What to serve with it

Serve with steamed rice and sautéed leafy greens.

A conversation around the table

Comments & kitchen questions

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Questions from the kitchen

Can I make Fijian-Inspired Coconut Fish Curry ahead?

Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Freeze for 1 month; thaw refrigerated and reheat gently to 165°F (74°C).

What if I can’t find an ingredient?

Replace cod with the same weight of tilapia or haddock; cook to 145°F (63°C).