Fried Fish Tomato Curry – A Homage to Ma’s Cooking
A delicious and crispy fried fish dish served with a flavorful tomato gravy, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
Mangalorean Crisp Fried Fish
- sliced fish (sardines, mackerel, seer fish, or pomfret)1kg
- rice flour or semolina5tbsp
- oil250mL
Fish Masala
- chilli powder1tbsp
- salt1tsp
- turmeric1/4tsp
- coconut vinegar (enough to mix into a paste)
Tomato Gravy
- tomato puree200g
- coconut vinegar1tbsp
- ginger garlic paste2tbsp
- coriander powder1/2tsp
- cumin seed powder1/4tsp
- Kashmiri chilli powder2tsp
- regular chilli powder1/2tsp
- turmeric powder1/4tsp
- pepper powder1/4tsp
- salt1tsp
- vegetable stock1cup
- large onion, sliced1
- coconut oil1tbsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
875.0kcal (43.75%)
Protein
50.0g (100%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.64%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
40.0g
Unhealthy Fat
12.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Fried Fish Tomato Curry – A Homage to Ma’s Cooking
Crispy Fried Fish
- Step 1
Wash the fish slices, then pat them dry thoroughly.
- Step 2
In a small bowl, mix the chilli powder, turmeric, salt, and coconut vinegar into a thick paste.
- Step 3
Rub the paste all over the fish and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 4
Roll each piece in rice flour or semolina to coat evenly.
- Step 5
Heat oil until smoking hot and deep fry or pan fry the fish until golden brown and crisp.
- Step 6
Drain on kitchen paper.
Tomato Gravy
- Step 1
Heat coconut oil in a pan and sauté the sliced onions on medium heat until golden brown.
- Step 2
Add the ginger garlic paste and fry until the raw smell disappears.
- Step 3
Stir in all the powdered spices and cook gently for a minute.
- Step 4
Pour in the tomato puree and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 5
Carefully slide in the fried fish. Lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Step 6
Garnish with ginger juliennes and fresh coriander leaves.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
875.0kcal (43.75%)
Protein
50.0g (100%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.64%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
40.0g
Unhealthy Fat
12.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
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Tips & Tricks
Serve this fried fish with plain white rice and dhal, or rasam for a simple, soul-satisfying meal.
FAQS
What type of fish is best for this recipe?
Sardines, mackerel, seer fish, or pomfret are recommended for this recipe.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, any vinegar can be used if coconut vinegar is not available.
How do I ensure the fish is crispy?
Make sure the oil is smoking hot before frying the fish to achieve a crispy texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with steamed white rice.
Can I use a different flour for coating?
Yes, you can use semolina or rice flour for coating the fish.
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Ruth Isaac
(@cookwithruth)
I am an Applied Psychologist with a passion for cooking and helping people change their lives through Food Therapy (Nutrition and Cooking Classes) I am an Applied Psychologist with a passion for cooking and helping people change their lives through Food Therapy (Nutrition and Cooking Classes)...
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Australia