Tamarind Fish Head Curry

Hey peeps! I know it has been a while since I’ve shared a recipe with you. Today, I am excited to present to you a very hearty Nyonya dish, the Tamarind Fish Head Curry!

Anyone who has been to South East Asia, specifically Malaysia or Singapore, would have at least tried and enjoyed this delicious spicy cuisine.

It is a popular dish among the locals and foreigners alike. If the name of the dish does not ring a bell, you might have heard or seen restaurants use a more localized name, such as; Assam Pedas Ikan, Gulai Tumis Fish, Spicy Tamarind Fish or Nyonya Gulai Tumis Fish.

During the early months of Covid era in Malaysia, our government implemented a lockdown order (MOC, Motion control) to control the spread of the deadly disease in the country. We were limited to the confined spaces in our homes as we were unable to visit restaurants as freely as we’d like to.

This has caused some of us, like my family, to crave dishes that we took for granted. One of the dishes I wanted to have so badly was this delicious hot spicy fish head curry that my mom used to cook when I was a child.

Coincidentally, since most restaurants were forced to stop operation, our neighbor, who owns a fish farm was kind enough to supply us with fresh garoupa. That was when I had the idea to use its head to cook this curry dish and use the remaining of its body to either steam or pan-sear.

Tamarind Fish Head Curry

scroll ⬇️ to get the recipe

Different from the chicken curry recipe I’ve shared previously, which is a dish commonly found in traditional Indian eateries, this rendition of curry was introduced and adapted by the Nyonya culture to suit the interracial and local taste buds.

Due to the Peranakans, or Baba-Nyonya, is a marriage between Chinese immigrants and locals (found in Malaysia, Singapore & parts of Indonesia); its cuisines are all jam-packed with flavors and variety.

Tamarind Fish Head Curry was said to be adopted from South Indian cuisine as the spices are widely used in Indian food. However, it is the fish head that brings out the specialty in this dish.

Unlike Indian curry dishes that use fish meat as its protein, fish heads are a well-loved protein amongst the Chinese race. Not only does it contain a higher percentage of omega-3 fatty acids to keep the brains and hearts healthy, but it is also filled with Vitamin A that is beneficial for the eyes.

Moreover, fish bones are known to enhance and bring out rich flavors. However, if you have difficulties finding fish heads, you may opt for fish meat as a substitute as well.

Authentic Recipe And Prepare From Scratch

I know you might not want to go through the hassle of buying all these ingredients since it’s very convenient to just head down to the store and get a ready-made packet of spices. But why not try to make it from scratch as a healthier option for yourself and your family? Now, are you ready to talk flavors?

That’s right, looking at the vibrant colors in the picture above, you might have already guessed that the most important element of this dish is the spices. If you are a first-timer on cooking with spices, worry not! I am here to help break it down and explain to you why each spice is vital in completing this dish.

Curry Spices

First up we have dried chilies; an ingredient that helps bring color to the dish and provides a strong kick to your taste buds. Another ingredient that is responsible for color is turmeric powder, a must-have ingredient in all curry dishes; that is filled with antioxidants which helps to maintain a healthy heart.

Next, we have galangal/lengkuas; this Thai/Siamese ginger gives off a much stronger taste compared to regular gingers due to its citrusy note. Alongside this spice is lemongrass, which is also an ingredient that provides an aromatic citrus scent to the dish.

Now, onto one of the most authentic ingredients found in almost all Malaysian households; belacan, or better known internationally as, shrimp paste. It is a fermented paste that provides extra depth to the dish due to its salty umami flavor. Remember, a little of this goes a long way, so do pay close attention to the amount used.

Lastly, we have ginger flower buds; those bright pink & white flowers that are packed with antibacterial properties. Not only is it healthy, but its elegant appearance also acts as a perfect garnish for the spicy-sour fish curry dish.

Appetizing and Yummy Delicious!

You must be salivating by now, right? This dish is not only aesthetically pleasing to the eyes, but it is also very appetizing due to its tangy and distinctive flavors.

Apart from all the spices and protein mentioned earlier, this pot of goodness is filled with healthy vegetables such as okras, tomatoes, and onions which provide balanced nutrition to one’s diet.

Trust me, be sure to prepare more rice when you decide to cook this dish as I’m sure its rich aromatic and tangy flavors will make you want more servings than you normally eat.

Let’s begin with the lesson on how to cook fish curry!