Authentic Sri Lankan Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry) – Step-by-Step Recipe by Food Blogger
Introduction
Fish Ambul Thiyal, or Sour Fish Curry, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic dishes, showcasing the rich flavours of tropical spices. Traditionally prepared with firm fish like tuna, this curry is distinct for its tart, spicy, and aromatic taste, achieved through the use of goraka (a type of tamarind). In this article, we'll show you how to cook this delectable dish from scratch. This guide will not only help you master a beloved Sri Lankan dish but also optimize your kitchen adventures with easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients
- 500g firm fish (tuna, swordfish, or skipjack)
- 4-5 pieces of goraka (or tamarind as a substitute)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chilli powder
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 small onion (finely sliced)
- Curry leaves (a handful)
- 1-2 green chillies (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup water
Instructions – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Fish and Goraka Paste
- Cut the fish into large cubes (about 2-3 inches each).
- Soak the goraka pieces in warm water for about 10 minutes. Once softened, grind them into a smooth paste. If using tamarind, prepare a thick tamarind paste as a substitute.
Step 2: Marinate the Fish
- In a bowl, mix the fish pieces with turmeric, salt, black pepper, and chilli powder.
- Add the goraka paste (or tamarind) and combine thoroughly. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Curry
- Heat coconut oil in a clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, garlic, curry leaves, and green chillies. Sauté until aromatic and lightly browned.
- Add the marinated fish and mix gently to coat with the aromatic mixture.
Step 4: Simmer the Curry
- Pour in 1 cup of water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until the fish is tender and the sauce is thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooked, allow the curry to rest for 10 minutes to let the flavours blend.
- Serve Fish Ambul Thiyal with steamed rice, coconut sambal, and papadums for a complete Sri Lankan meal.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Using clay pots enhances the flavour of Fish Ambul Thiyal, making it more authentic.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator; this curry tastes even better the next day as the flavours deepen.
- Add green chillies or more black pepper for a spicier version.
- If you can't find goraka, tamarind or lime juice can be used as substitutes, though the flavour won't be exactly the same.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Meta Description (SEO Optimized)
Learn how to make Fish Ambul Thiyal, a traditional Sri Lankan sour fish curry with tuna, goraka, and spices. Perfect with steamed rice and packed with flavors!
Keywords for SEO
- Fish Ambul Thiyal
- Sri Lankan sour fish curry
- How to make Fish Ambul Thiyal
- Tuna curry recipe Sri Lanka
- Goraka fish curry
- Authentic Sri Lankan recipes
- Sri Lankan cuisine
Tags for Social Media and Blog Platforms
#FishAmbulThiyal #SriLankanCuisine #SriLankanRecipes #TunaCurry #GorakaCurry #SourFishCurry #AuthenticSriLankanFood #SriLankanFlavors #TraditionalRecipes #WorldCuisines