This Tropical Coconut Lime Fish Curry is the perfect balance of richness, brightness, and warm spice. Tender pieces of white fish gently simmer in a silky coconut broth infused with lime, ginger, garlic, and curry paste. Crisp vegetables add freshness and texture, while jasmine rice soaks up every delicious drop. In under an hour, you’ll have a dish that feels special, vibrant, and wonderfully comforting — like a warm breeze from a tropical island right in your kitchen.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Curry
- 1 lb firm white fish (cod, tilapia, halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp red or green curry paste
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup fish or vegetable broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- Fresh cilantro & lime wedges for garnish
For the Jasmine Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions — Detailed
1️⃣ Cook the Jasmine Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch — this ensures fluffy, fragrant grains.
Combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce to low heat. Cover and let it gently steam for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it rest (still covered) for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2️⃣ Start the Curry Base
In a large skillet or pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
Mix in the curry paste, allowing it to toast for 1 minute — this helps release its full aroma.
3️⃣ Add the Coconut Broth
Pour in the coconut milk and broth. Stir well to dissolve the curry paste into a smooth, creamy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4️⃣ Season with Lime & Balance
Stir in the lime zest and juice for brightness. Add fish sauce for depth and sugar to balance acidity if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning according to preference.
5️⃣ Add Vegetables & Fish
Add the bell pepper and snap peas (or green beans). Simmer for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Gently nestle the fish pieces into the curry. Cook for 4–5 minutes, or just until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Spoon the fragrant curry over warm jasmine rice and enjoy a tropical escape in every bite.
