Best Guide: How long to cook fish in curry for delicious results

By Avi Green October 06, 2023

For barbecue enthusiasts, the challenge of cooking the perfect fish in curry can be as rewarding as it is daunting. Theres a delicate balance to strike; cook the fish too long, and it becomes tough and chewy. Cook it too little, and you risk undercooking it. So, how long does it actually take to cook fish in curry? Lets dive into the deep waters of fish curry cooking.

The Basics of Cooking Fish in Curry

Before diving into the specifics, let's understand the fundamentals. Fish curry is a popular dish made by simmering fish in a spicy and flavorful gravy. The time how long to cook fish in curry varies based on the type of fish, the size of the pieces, and the cooking method employed.

Types of Fish Suitable for Curry

Different types of fish require different cooking times. Here are some common types of fish used in curry and their cooking recommendations:

Cod: 8-10 minutes
Salmon: 10-12 minutes
Swordfish: 12-15 minutes
Tilapia: 5-6 minutes
Catfish: 6-8 minutes

Marinating: The Key to Flavor

To get the most out of your fish curry, marinate your fish before cooking. Marinating not only infuses flavors but also reduces the required cooking time. A good marinade might include ingredients like lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and various spices.

For more marinade tips, check out this How to marinate raw fish.

Cooking Methods and Times

Stovetop Cooking

When cooking fish curry on a stovetop, the general recommendation is to cook the fish for 10-15 minutes on medium heat. Ensure that the curry sauce is simmering gently, not boiling vigorously.

Slow Cooking

When using a slow cooker, cooking times can extend to 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Slow cooking helps in developing a deeper flavor while keeping the fish tender.

For more on slow cooking fish, see this guide.

Oven Baking

For oven-baked fish curry, preheat your oven to 375F (190C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the fish from drying out.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Common mistakes include overcooking the fish and not seasoning the curry properly. Always taste the curry sauce during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.

Overcooking

Overcooking leads to dry, tough fish. The secret is to monitor the cooking process closely. Thin fish fillets cook faster than thick ones, remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Not Preheating the Oven

Skipping the preheating step when oven-baking can lead to unevenly cooked fish. Always ensure your oven is at the required temperature before placing your dish inside.

Serving Suggestions

Once your fish in curry is perfectly cooked, serve it hot. Complement your curry with steamed rice, naan bread, or flatbreads. Add a side of fresh salad to complete the meal.