Kari Koko (Seychellois Coconut Fish Curry)
Local name: Kari koko
In short: Chunks of firm fish simmered in a turmeric, ginger and tomato coconut sauce, finished with lime and served with steamed rice. It takes about 55 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 35 min
- Total
- 55 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 735 kcal
Kari is the everyday meal of Seychelles, and fish cooked in coconut milk is one of its most common forms. The sauce is built from onion, garlic, ginger and ground spices, then softened with tomato and coconut milk. Firm fish such as tuna or kingfish goes in at the end so it stays tender. A squeeze of lime lifts the sauce, and plain rice and a spoonful of chili sauce complete the plate.
Instructions
- Toss the fish with the lime juice and 1/2 tsp salt and leave for 10 minutes.
- Heat the oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the cinnamon and onion and cook for 6 minutes until soft and golden.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger for 1 minute, then add the turmeric, coriander, cumin and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and cook for 6 minutes, mashing, until they break down into a paste.
- Pour in the coconut milk and water, add the whole chili and 1 tsp salt and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Slide in the fish, spoon sauce over it and simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes until the fish reaches 63°C (145°F) and flakes easily. Do not stir roughly.
- Taste and add salt or a squeeze of lime. Remove the cinnamon and chili, scatter with cilantro and serve over rice.
Tips
- Fish steaks hold their shape better than thin fillets. Cut the pieces large and add them last so they do not overcook.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture. Simmer the sauce gently, since boiling can make coconut milk split.
Questions and answers
Can I make kari koko with chicken or octopus?
Yes. Both are traditional. Simmer chicken pieces for 30 minutes before serving, or octopus for about 45 minutes until tender.
Is Seychellois curry hot?
Mild to medium. The whole chili adds gentle heat, and cooks serve fiery chili sauce on the side.
Can I make it ahead?
Make the sauce up to 2 days ahead and add the fish when you reheat it, so it does not overcook.
How long does it take to make Kari Koko (Seychellois Coconut Fish Curry)?
About 55 min in total: 20 min of preparation and 35 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Kari Koko (Seychellois Coconut Fish Curry)?
About 735 kcal per serving, with 45 g of protein, 70 g of carbohydrates and 30 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 735 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 45 g |
| Carbohydrates | 70 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 920 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
