Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed for easier eating
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild or medium heat, depending on your taste)
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk (full-fat for creamier sauce, light for fewer calories)
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce or soy sauce (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or basil for garnish (optional but highly recommended)
- Cooked jasmine or basmati rice, for serving
Substitution tips: If you don’t have fresh ginger, a half teaspoon of ground ginger works in a pinch. No fish sauce? Use extra soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire sauce instead. And if you want to swap out salmon, this curry sauce is equally delicious with cod, tilapia, or even firm tofu for a plant-based twist.
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I like using coconut oil here because it adds a subtle sweetness that complements the curry.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. This step always reminds me of my mom’s magic touch—turning simple onions into the base for something amazing.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the kitchen smells like a warm hug.
- Sprinkle in the curry powder and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to toast the spices and bring out their aroma. I find this step crucial—don’t skip it or your curry will taste flat!
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of chili flakes here for a little heat.
- Season the sauce with fish sauce or soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust—remember, the lime juice brightens everything up, so don’t be shy with it.
- Carefully nestle the salmon fillets into the sauce, skin side down if you left the skin on. Spoon some sauce over the tops.
- Cover the pan and let the salmon cook gently for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness. You want it just cooked through but still tender and flaky. I usually check by gently pressing the fillet with a fork—if it flakes easily, it’s done.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro or basil on top for a fresh finish. This little step always makes a dish feel extra special, especially on busy nights.
- Serve immediately over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that luscious sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Coconut Curry Salmon, recipe, cooking, food
