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Coconut Curry Fish Stew

Shruthi
Coconut Curry Fish Stew is a hearty seafood dish featuring tender fish simmered in a creamy coconut curry broth. Infused with garlic, ginger, vegetables, and aromatic spices, the stew offers a perfect balance of richness and freshness. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it makes an excellent weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. The creamy coconut base pairs beautifully with flaky fish and vibrant herbs. Every bowl delivers comforting flavors inspired by tropical coastal cuisines.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup, stew
Cuisine asian inspired, coastal, tropical
Servings 4
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Stew

  • 1½ pounds white fish fillets (cod, snapper, halibut, or mahi-mahi), cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Liquid Ingredients

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 cups fish stock or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

Finishing Ingredients

  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Sliced green onions
  • Red chili slices

Instructions
 

  • Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add bell pepper, carrot, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
  • Pour in coconut milk, fish stock, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
  • Bring the stew to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
  • Carefully add the fish pieces to the simmering broth.
  • Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with desired garnishes.

Notes

  • Firm white fish works best in this stew.
  • Full-fat coconut milk creates the richest texture.
  • Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors.
  • Adjust spice levels according to preference.
  • Fish cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking.
  • Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth.
  • The stew thickens slightly as it sits.
  • Serve with rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Keyword Coconut Curry Fish Stew, Coconut Milk Fish Curry, Fish Curry Soup, Healthy Fish Dinner, One-Pot Seafood Recipe, Seafood Stew