FISH MADRAS CURRY – A Fiery South Indian Seafood Delight

Craving something bold, spicy, and unforgettable? Meet Fish Madras Curry – a dish that celebrates the fiery flavors of southern India. Infused with fragrant spices, tangy tomatoes, and a rich coconut base, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream, offering both depth and heat in every bite.

Whether you prefer tender fish fillets or juicy prawns, Madras Curry brings them to life with a vibrant, soul-warming sauce that’s perfect with rice or warm naan.

Welcome to the world of southern coastal India, served right here at your favorite Indian Food Restaurant in Seattle, WA.

Origins of Madras Curry

Madras Curry hails from the Tamil Nadu region of South India — a land known for its love of bold spices, tangy tamarind, and layered curries. The word “Madras” refers to the former name of the capital city Chennai, where spicy curries are a way of life.

This dish reflects the region’s tropical climate and access to the sea. Coconut, mustard seeds, red chilies, and curry leaves come together with seafood to create a dynamic flavor profile — spicy, sour, and aromatic.

What Makes Madras Fish Curry So Special?

At Jewel of India, our Madras Fish Curry is crafted with care and authenticity. Each element plays a role:

  • Fish or prawns: You can choose your protein. We use white fish like cod or tilapia, or fresh prawns, cleaned and deveined.
  • Spice base: A flavorful combination of mustard seeds, curry leaves, garlic, and red chilies.
  • Tangy tomato-coconut gravy: Balanced with tamarind and warm Indian spices like turmeric, coriander, and chili powder.
  • Slow simmering: We allow the flavors to marry, creating a rich and spicy sauce that soaks into the fish without overpowering it.

Step-by-Step Recipe – Madras Fish Curry

Here’s how we make it from scratch:

Step 1: Make the Masala Base

We start by heating oil in a deep pan and adding:

  • Mustard seeds until they splutter
  • Curry leaves, dry red chilies, and chopped onions
  • Garlic and ginger paste for depth

Once the onions are golden, we move on to the heart of the curry — the spice blend.

Step 2: Add Spices

In go the bold flavors:

  • Coriander powder
  • Turmeric
  • Red chili powder
  • Garam masala
  • A dash of cumin

This spice mix is sautéed with the onion base until aromatic.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

Add in:

  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Coconut milk or fresh coconut paste
  • A small spoon of tamarind paste for tang

Let it simmer until the oil begins to separate. This tells us the masala is cooked.

Step 4: Add the Fish or Prawns

Now, the cleaned fish chunks or prawns are gently placed into the simmering gravy. They're cooked just until done — tender, juicy, and flavorful.

What to Serve with Fish Madras Curry?

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed basmati rice – to soak up the fiery curry
  • Jeera (cumin) rice – for added aroma
  • Buttery naan or chapati
  • A side of cool raita – to balance the heat

Why Seattle Loves Our Fish Madras Curry

Our guests at Jewel of India – Seattle enjoy this dish because it brings the warmth of South Indian kitchens to the cool Pacific Northwest. It’s:

  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Available with prawns or white fish
  • A great option for those who enjoy bold, hot, and tangy flavors
  • Cooked with authentic Indian ingredients, no shortcuts

Customizable Heat Level

While Madras Curry is known for its heat, we can adjust the spice level to your taste. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or extra hot, we’ll make it just right.

💬 Customer Favorite

"This is hands-down the best fish curry I’ve had outside of India. Spicy, tangy, and full of flavor. Reminds me of home!" – A regular from Seattle

📍 Visit Jewel of India Today

📌 Address: 4735 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105

📞 Call Us: 206-523-5275

📧 Email: jewelofindia101@gmail.com

Come try our Madras Fish or Prawn Curry — a bold, flavorful escape to the southern coasts of India, right here in Seattle.