Coconut Lime Fish Curry with Jasmine Rice – A Bright, Creamy, Thai-Inspired Meal
Introduction: A Flavorful Fusion of Comfort and Zest
This Coconut Lime Fish Curry with Jasmine Rice is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy—ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a dish that transports you straight to Southeast Asia with the rich flavor of red curry paste, zesty lime, and silky coconut milk. Paired with fluffy jasmine rice, this recipe is quick enough for weeknights but exotic enough to impress guests.
Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy dinner or just craving something vibrant and satisfying, this dish delivers bold flavor and nourishment in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: 30 minutes from start to finish
Bursting with Thai-inspired flavor
Creamy and tangy with a gentle heat
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Perfect over jasmine or basmati rice
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Ingredients
For the Fish Curry:
1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock), cut into chunks
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons red curry paste
Juice and zest of 2 limes
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for depth)
1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish
For the Jasmine Rice:
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water or vegetable broth
Pinch of salt
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
1. Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, bring water or broth and salt to a boil.
3. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until softened (2–3 minutes).
Step 3: Build the Curry Base
1. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
2. Add coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, brown sugar, and fish sauce.
3. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Fish
1. Gently add the fish chunks to the sauce.
2. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked and flaky.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime juice, salt, or sugar if needed.
Step 5: Serve
1. Spoon the curry over fluffy jasmine rice.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro or Thai basil.
3. Serve with lime wedges or sliced chili for extra heat.
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Variations
1. Shrimp or Scallop Curry
Substitute fish with peeled shrimp or scallops and simmer until just cooked.
2. Vegetarian Option
Use tofu, chickpeas, or mixed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
3. Spicy Upgrade
Add sliced red chilies, chili paste, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
4. Lemongrass Flavor
Add 1 stalk of bruised lemongrass to the curry base for extra fragrance.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with jasmine or basmati rice
Add naan or flatbread for dipping
Pair with a cucumber salad or mango slaw
Top with toasted coconut or chopped peanuts for texture
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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make-Ahead:
Prepare curry base ahead and store refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Freeze curry (without rice) for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge and reheat gently.
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Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – with rice)
Calories: 460
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 26g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 2g
> Nutrition varies based on fish type and curry paste.
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FAQs
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, thaw fully before cooking to avoid excess water.
What’s the best fish to use?
Firm, flaky white fish like cod, haddock, or halibut work best.
Can I use green or yellow curry paste?
Absolutely—green will be spicier, and yellow is milder with a turmeric base.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your curry paste and fish sauce are gluten-free.
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Conclusion: A Bowl of Fresh, Flavorful Comfort
This Coconut Lime Fish Curry is the kind of recipe that combines minimal effort with maximum flavor. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a tropical twist or just want a healthy dinner packed with good fats and protein, this dish is the answer. Serve it over jasmine rice and enjoy the zesty, creamy, and aromatic experience.
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Call to Action
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