Fish Methi Malai is a classic North Indian dish that is popular for its creamy texture and rich flavour. This vegetarian dish is made with a combination of fenugreek leaves, green peas and cream, and can be served with rice or naan bread.
The dish is easy to prepare and can be made in less than an hour.
To make Fish Methi Malai, you will need a few simple ingredients, including fish fillets, onions, ginger, garlic, fenugreek seeds, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
The fish is first marinated in a mixture of spices and then cooked in a creamy sauce made with fenugreek leaves and cream. The result is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
If you are looking for a flavourful and easy-to-make vegetarian dish, Fish Methi Malai is definitely worth a try. With its creamy texture and rich flavour, it is sure to become a family favourite.
So why not give it a try today and see for yourself how delicious it can be?
Key Takeaways
- Fish Methi Malai is a classic North Indian dish that is popular for its creamy texture and rich flavour.
- This vegetarian dish is made with a combination of fenugreek leaves, green peas and cream, and can be served with rice or naan bread.
- To make Fish Methi Malai, you will need a few simple ingredients, including fish fillets, onions, ginger, garlic, fenugreek seeds, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
Ingredients and Substitutes
Main Ingredients
To make Fish Methi Malai, you will need fish, fenugreek leaves (methi leaves), green peas (matar), garlic, ginger, onion, oil, and spices such as cumin seeds, green cardamom, and cinnamon.
You can use any white fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia. Fresh fenugreek leaves are recommended for this recipe, but if they are not available, you can use dried fenugreek leaves or kasuri methi.
Dairy Alternatives
Traditionally, this recipe calls for malai or cream to give it a rich and creamy texture. However, if you are looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk instead.
You can also use cashew cream or almond milk to thicken the sauce.
Herbs and Spices
To add flavour to the dish, you will need a variety of herbs and spices such as garam masala, turmeric, cloves, green chilli, and cilantro.
Garam masala powder is a blend of spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. If you don't have garam masala, you can make your own by mixing together ground cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
When it comes to salt and sugar, you can adjust the amount to your liking. Some recipes call for a pinch of sugar to balance out the flavours.
In summary, to make Fish Methi Malai, you will need fish, fenugreek leaves, green peas, garlic, ginger, onion, oil, and a variety of herbs and spices. You can use dairy alternatives such as coconut milk or cashew cream to make it dairy-free. Don't be afraid to adjust the salt and sugar to your taste.
Cooking Method and Serving Suggestions
Preparing the Base
To make fish methi malai, you need to prepare the base first.
In a pan, heat some oil on medium heat. Add chopped ginger and garlic paste, and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
Next, add green chilies and sauté for a few more seconds. Then, add a smooth paste made of cashews and warm water.
You can use almond milk or regular milk instead of water if you prefer a creamier texture. Stir well and cook until the mixture thickens.
Cooking the Curry
Once the base is ready, add fresh methi leaves and cook for a few minutes until they are wilted.
Then, add your fish and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it is cooked through.
Finally, add frozen green peas and cook for a few more minutes until they are soft.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the bitterness of the methi leaves. You can also add a dollop of fresh cream or heavy cream for a richer texture.
Serving and Pairing
Fish methi malai is a delicious and aromatic North Indian curry that goes well with naan, roti, paratha, or jeera rice. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
This recipe serves four and takes only 30 minutes to make.
If you are vegan, you can use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the fish for a vegan version.
This curry is gluten-free and has many health benefits due to the presence of fresh methi leaves.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare a fish methi malai curry?
To prepare a fish methi malai curry, you will need to marinate fish pieces in turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt for about 30 minutes.
Then, you will need to sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until they turn golden brown.
Add tomatoes, green chillies, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Add fenugreek leaves and cook for a few minutes. Finally, add the marinated fish pieces and coconut milk. Cook for about 15 minutes on low heat until the fish is cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
What are the essential ingredients for making methi fish?
The essential ingredients for making methi fish are fish, fenugreek leaves, coconut milk, onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, green chillies, and spices like turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Can you describe the process for making methi fish in Sindhi style?
To make methi fish in Sindhi style, you will need to marinate fish pieces in turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt for about 30 minutes.
Then, you will need to sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until they turn golden brown.
Add tomatoes, green chillies, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Add fenugreek leaves and cook for a few minutes. Finally, add the marinated fish pieces and tamarind pulp. Cook for about 15 minutes on low heat until the fish is cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
What's the best way to fry fish with methi leaves?
The best way to fry fish with methi leaves is to marinate the fish pieces in turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt for about 30 minutes.
Then, coat the fish pieces with a mixture of besan (gram flour) and rice flour.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the fish pieces until they turn golden brown.
In another pan, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until they turn golden brown.
Add tomatoes, green chillies, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Add fenugreek leaves and cook for a few minutes. Finally, add the fried fish pieces and cook for a few more minutes until the gravy has thickened.
How does fenugreek enhance the flavour of fish curries?
Fenugreek has a slightly bitter taste and a sweet aroma that adds depth and complexity to fish curries. It also has a nutty flavour that pairs well with fish and seafood.
Is it safe to combine fenugreek with dairy products in a recipe?
Yes, it is safe to combine fenugreek with dairy products in a recipe.
In fact, fenugreek is often used in combination with cream or coconut milk to make rich and creamy curries.