The Best Indian Coastal Seafood Recipes for Beginners

Indian coastal cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and textures, and its seafood dishes are particularly noteworthy. From the vibrant spices of Goa to the gentle influences of Kerala, seafood plays a vital role in the culinary traditions of India's coastal regions. For those just starting their culinary journey, here are some of the best Indian coastal seafood recipes that are not only simple but also bursting with flavor.

1. Goan Fish Curry

This iconic dish is a staple in Goan households. It features fish cooked in a rich, coconut milk-based sauce with a blend of spices.

Ingredients: 500g fish fillets, 1 cup coconut milk, 2 onions, 2 tomatoes, 3-4 green chilies, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp red chili powder, salt to taste, 2 tbsp oil, fresh coriander for garnish.

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
  2. Add tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and green chilies, cooking until soft.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk and gently add the fish. Simmer until the fish is cooked through.
  4. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving. Enjoy with rice or chapati.

2. Kerala Prawn Fry

This dish is a must-try for prawn lovers. The prawns are marinated in a blend of spices and fried until crispy.

Ingredients: 250g prawns (cleaned), 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp rice flour, salt to taste, oil for frying.

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix prawns with turmeric, red chili powder, lemon juice, and salt. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. Coat the marinated prawns with rice flour.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the prawns until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Serve hot with a side of lemon wedges and onion rings.

3. Bengali Fish Bhapa

This steamed fish dish is light, fragrant, and perfect for those who enjoy subtle flavors. Made with mustard paste, it’s a delightful choice for beginners.

Ingredients: 500g Rohu or any locally available fish, 2 tbsp mustard seeds, 2 green chilies, 1 tbsp turmeric powder, 1 tbsp mustard oil, salt to taste.

Instructions:

  1. Soak mustard seeds in water for 30 minutes, then blend with green chilies and a little water to make a smooth paste.
  2. In a bowl, mix fish pieces with mustard paste, turmeric, salt, and mustard oil.
  3. Transfer to a steaming dish and steam for about 20-25 minutes over boiling water.
  4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh green chilies and mustard oil.

4. Mangalorean Fish Molee

This dish is known for its unique taste and ease of preparation. Fish is simmered in a coconut milk and spice mix, making it creamy and rich.

Ingredients: 500g fish fillets, 2 cups coconut milk, 1 onion, 2-3 green chilies, 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp turmeric powder, salt to taste, fresh curry leaves.

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, and green chilies. Cook for a few minutes.
  3. Add coconut milk and gently place the fish fillets in the mixture, simmering until the fish is cooked and creamy.
  4. Add curry leaves for aroma, and serve with steamed rice.

5. Andhra-style Fish Fry

This spicy fish fry is perfect for those who love bold flavors. The fish is marinated in a fiery spice mix and pan-fried to perfection.

Ingredients: 500g fish (such as mackerel), 1 tbsp red