Indian-Style Dried Sailfish Curry | Authentic Coastal Recipe

Dried Sailfish Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with rehydrated dried sailfish simmered in a rich, spicy, and tangy coconut-based gravy. This traditional curry is a perfect blend of spices like turmeric, chili powder, and black pepper, along with the tanginess of tamarind or lemon juice. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or bread and can be served alongside other curries or coconut sambol for a complete meal. If you love bold flavors and coastal cuisine, this dish is a must-try!

Table of Contents

How to Make Dried Sailfish Curry – Indian Recipe

Ingredients

Dried Sailfish – 500 g (rehydrated)
Chili powder – 2 tsp
Turmeric powder (haldi) – 1 tsp
Black pepper powder – 1 tsp
Curry powder – 1 tsp
Lemon juice – 1 tbsp (or tamarind extract as an alternative)
Coconut oil – 2 tbsp
Mustard seeds (rai) – 1 tsp
Fenugreek seeds (methi dana) – 1 tsp
Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
Garlic cloves – 5, minced
Cinnamon stick – 2-inch piece
Pandan leaves (optional) – 1 small piece
Green chilies – 2, slit
Curry leaves – A few sprigs
Tomato – 1 medium, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rehydrate the Dried Sailfish

Wash the dried sailfish thoroughly to remove dirt and excess salt.
Soak the fish in coconut water for about 10 minutes to reduce its saltiness. Drain the water and repeat this process two to three times. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base

Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add fenugreek seeds and sauté until aromatic.
Add minced garlic, curry leaves, cinnamon stick, and pandan leaves (if using). Sauté for about a minute.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Tomatoes

Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

Step 4: Add Spices

Stir in turmeric powder, chili powder, black pepper powder, and curry powder. Mix well to coat the onion-tomato mixture with the spices.

Step 5: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in about 1½ cups of water to adjust the consistency of the curry. Bring it to a gentle boil.
Add lemon juice (or tamarind extract) for tanginess and mix well.

Step 6: Cook the Dried Sailfish

Gently add the rehydrated dried sailfish pieces to the curry base. Stir carefully to coat them with the gravy.
Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 10–12 minutes until the fish absorbs all the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious dried sailfish curry hot with steamed rice or flatbreads like chapati or naan. Pair it with coconut sambol or other side dishes for an authentic coastal meal experience.

Tips for Making the Best Dried Sailfish Curry

Soak dried sailfish thoroughly to reduce its saltiness before cooking.
Adjust spice levels by varying chili powder or adding more green chilies based on your preference.
Coconut oil enhances the flavor of this dish but can be substituted with any neutral cooking oil.
If pandan leaves are unavailable, you can skip them without compromising much on flavor.

This rich and flavorful Dried Sailfish Curry is a perfect way to enjoy dried seafood in a hearty meal packed with spices and tangy goodness. The combination of rehydrated sailfish, creamy coconut-based gravy, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

To recreate this recipe at home, explore our collection of dried fish, prawns, squid, chutney powders, and non-veg pickles to bring authentic coastal flavors straight to your kitchen! Try this recipe today and savor the taste of traditional seafood cuisine!