Skip to content
Back to your kitchen
🇮🇳 Indian

Dahi-wali Fish

🇮🇳 Indian

A homestyle dahi-wali where fish simmers in a deeply bhunao-ed masala — the kind of curry that tastes better on day two, if it lasts that long. About 35 minutes from fridge to table.

Prep 15 min Cook 20 min Serves 4 Medium

Ingredients

  • Yogurt1 cup, whisked
  • Ginger Garlic Paste1 tbsp
  • Garam Masala1/2 tsp
  • Saltto taste
  • Onion1 large, finely chopped
  • Tomato2, finely chopped
  • Cumin Seeds1 tsp
  • Turmeric Powder1/2 tsp
  • Vegetable Oil2 tbsp
  • Fish450 g, steaks
  • Ground Coriander1 tsp
  • Red Chili Powder1 tsp

Optional extras

  • Fresh Cilantrohandful, to finish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy kadhai over medium heat until it shimmers.

  2. 2

    Crackle the cumin seeds for a few seconds until they turn a shade darker and smell nutty.

  3. 3

    Add the chopped onion and fry until deep golden, 6-8 minutes — this colour is the backbone of the gravy.

  4. 4

    Stir in the ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears, about a minute.

  5. 5

    Tip in the turmeric, red chili powder, ground coriander and tomatoes; bhunao the masala, stirring often, until the oil separates at the edges.

  6. 6

    Take the pot off the heat before stirring in the whisked yogurt so it never splits.

  7. 7

    Add the fish and turn every piece through the masala, then pour in a cup of hot water; cover and simmer until perfectly tender, 15-20 minutes.

  8. 8

    Season with salt, garam masala and reduce to the consistency you like.

  9. 9

    Finish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, paratha or steamed rice.

Chef's tip

If the masala catches on the pan, splash in a spoon of water and keep going; never rush this stage.

Cook it with your pantry → Share this page: /dish/12112

Video: Dahi Wali Machli/ Fish Recipe by Hira's Cuisine · on YouTube