Curry Fish Head is a celebrated dish in Singaporean cuisine, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. This delightful curry combines the succulent meat of a fish head with a savory coconut milk base, making it a favorite in many households and hawker centers. While it might seem daunting to recreate this Singaporean classic at home, it’s an achievable and rewarding culinary challenge.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Curry Fish Head, you will need the following ingredients:
1 large fish head (preferably snapper or pomfret)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced ginger
12 tablespoons curry powder (or to taste)
400ml coconut milk
1 tablespoon tamarind paste
23 cups water
12 tomatoes, quartered
12 okras or eggplants, chopped
Salt and sugar, to taste
Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish Head: Start by cleaning and cutting the fish head into manageable pieces. Rinse it under cold water and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, frying until fragrant.
3. Add Curry Powder: Stir in the curry powder and cook for a minute or two to release its flavors.
4. Coconut Milk Base: Pour in the coconut milk and mix well. Add the tamarind paste and stir to combine, followed by 23 cups of water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 510 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Introduce the Fish and Vegetables: Add the fish head pieces to the curry, along with the tomatoes and okras or eggplants. Let it cook gently for another 1015 minutes, ensuring the fish is cooked through but not overdone.
7. Season to Taste: Adjust the flavors by adding salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the dish.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the fish is cooked, turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Conclusion
Creating Curry Fish Head at home is not only possible but also an opportunity to engage with the vibrant flavors of Singaporean cuisine. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this dish in the comfort of your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the delicious world of Singaporean curry!