Tonight's dinner

Sri Lankan Fish Ambul Thiyal with Coconut Sambol

Peppery tamarind fish and fresh coconut sambol bring bold Sri Lankan flavors to a compact dinner plate.

  • 35 min
  • Serves 2
  • Fish

Sri Lankan Fish Ambul Thiyal with Coconut Sambol, finished dish

Ingredients

  • 10 ounces firm white fish, cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 garlic clove, grated
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 small red onion, finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 small green chile, minced
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • curry leaves, optional

Steps

  1. Mix fish with tamarind, pepper, turmeric, cumin, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Let it stand for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fish and cook for 3 minutes per side, turning carefully, until it reaches 145°F.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons water and curry leaves if using. Cover and cook 2 minutes so the spices form a dark coating.
  4. Meanwhile combine coconut, red onion, lime juice, chile, and salt in a small bowl to make sambol.
  5. Serve fish with rice and a generous spoonful of coconut sambol.

Allergen note: Contains fish and coconut.

Use the listed quantities as a guide, adjust seasoning to taste, and cook proteins to a safe internal temperature.

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