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South African­ Indian Style Fish Curry

South Africans of Indian origin have retained their cooking traditions; Indian influences have contributed to the rainbow nation diversity of South Africa. South African Indian fish curry is a classic Indian recipe.



The first Indians arrived during the Dutch colonial era, as slaves, in 1684. In the decades, 1690 to 1725 over 80% of the slaves were Indians. This practice continued until the end of slavery in 1838. The Indian population in South Africa lives mostly in, Durban. South Africa has an Indian population of over 1 million people of Indian descent.

South Africans of Indian origin have retained their cooking traditions; Indian influences have contributed to the rainbow nation diversity of South Africa. South African Indian fish curry is a classic Indian recipe.

South African­ Indian Style Fish Curry

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds white fish fillets
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 teaspoon garam masala
10 fresh curry leaves
1 medium onion, chopped
2 large red tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 hot pepper, finely chopped
½ cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Water

Directions

Heat oil in a frying pan over a medium to high heat. Mix spices well and add onto a plate. Dredge fish in spice mixture until completely coated. Add the coated fish pieces, fry for 3 minutes, cooked through. 

Remove fish, add mustard seeds, cover the pan with a lid, and fry until they start to pop. Add the onion and curry leaves and continue to fry for a further 4­5 minutes. 

Add the tomatoes; ginger, garlic, and pepper continue to fry, stirring well, for 3­4 minutes. Add the coconut milk and stir well. 

Bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened, add water to the mixture if necessary. Serve over rice. 

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African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

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