Cod and curry make an unexpected and delicious pairing: the white, succulent flesh of desalted cod absorbs the aromas of the spices, and coconut milk creates a smooth and enveloping sauce. It’s an Asian-inspired dish, easy and quick, perfect for breaking out of your usual recipes without complicating your life.
Cod with curry might sound like gastronomic heresy, but in Goa (India), where the Portuguese left their mark for 450 years, spiced cod is a centuries-old tradition. The mild coconut milk curry envelops the cod in a velvety sauce with hints of turmeric, cumin, and ginger that enhance the fish's natural sweetness instead of masking it. It's a recipe that surprises those who try it for the first time and quickly becomes a regular favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 large pieces of desalted cod loin (we used Morro Extra Clean Desalted Cod Loin - 900g)
- 400 ml coconut milk
- 1 chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 piece ginger (3 cm), grated
- 2 teaspoons mild curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 200 g crushed tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro, lemon
- Basmati rice for serving
Step-by-step preparation
- Sauté the onion for 8 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, for 1 minute. Add the spices (curry, turmeric, cumin), stir for 30 seconds to lightly toast them (this releases essential oils and enhances the flavor).
- Add the crushed tomatoes, cook for 5 minutes. Pour in the coconut milk, stir and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and cook for 5 minutes.
- Cod: 8 minutes Submerge the cod pieces in the sauce. Cook covered over low heat for 8 minutes, without stirring, until the cod is opaque and tender.
- Squeeze half a lemon over it. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with basmati rice.
The House Trick
Use mild, not spicy, curry: cod has a delicate flavor that excessive spice can destroy. The curry should perfume, not assault. And coconut milk adds a vegetable fat that makes the sauce silky without needing cream. For a more authentic touch, add a few fresh curry leaves to the sauté (found in Asian stores).
Buy it at BacalaloMorro Extra Clean Desalted Cod Loin - 900g€44.90 · 24-48h refrigerated shipping →Frequently Asked Questions
What cod should I use for curry?
Desalted cod loins or pieces that hold up well to cooking in sauce without falling apart and provide juicy flakes.
Is this curry very spicy?
No, it's a mild curry: the coconut milk mellows the spiciness. You can adjust the amount of curry paste to your taste.
What do you serve it with?
With basmati or jasmine rice, which soaks up the sauce, and a touch of fresh cilantro and lime when serving.
