How to Make Fish Molee (Fish Molu): A Kerala-Style Coconut Fish Curry

Fish Molee, also known as Fish Molu or Meen Molee, is a beloved dish from the coastal cuisine of Kerala, India. This mildly spiced fish curry is cooked in a luscious coconut milk gravy infused with aromatic spices, fresh curry leaves, and green chillies. It perfectly showcases the delicate flavours of Kerala and is best enjoyed with appam, steamed rice, or parotta.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through an easy step-by-step recipe on how to make Fish Molee, using ingredients easily found in your kitchen or at your local market. Whether you're a home cook or a food enthusiast exploring Indian cuisine, this dish is a must-try!

---

✅ Why Try This Fish Molee Recipe?

Simple, comforting, and light on spices

A great way to enjoy fresh fish in a creamy coconut base

Naturally gluten-free

Ready in under 45 minutes

Perfect for both weekday meals and special occasions

---

🐟 Ingredients for Fish Molee

Here's everything you'll need to prepare authentic Kerala-style Fish Molee:

For the Fish:

500g firm white fish (Kingfish, Seer fish, or Cod), cut into medium-sized pieces

1 tsp turmeric powder

Salt, to taste

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Curry:

2 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2 green chillies, slit

1-inch piece of ginger, julienned

4-5 garlic cloves, sliced

1 sprig of fresh curry leaves

1 small tomato, sliced

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp crushed black pepper (optional)

200 ml thin coconut milk

200 ml thick coconut milk

Salt, to taste

---

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Method to Make Fish Molee

Step 1: Marinate the Fish

In a bowl, mix the fish pieces with turmeric, salt, and lemon juice.

Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Shallow Fry the Fish (Optional)

Heat 1 tbsp of coconut oil in a pan.

Lightly fry the marinated fish for about 1–2 minutes per side until just sealed.

Remove and keep aside. This step helps prevent the fish from breaking while cooking.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add more coconut oil if needed.

Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and translucent.

Add garlic, ginger, curry leaves, and green chillies. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomato

Add turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper.

Add tomato slices and cook until soft but not mushy.

Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk

Add the thin coconut milk and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Carefully place the fish pieces into the curry.

Cover and cook on a low flame for 8–10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.

Step 6: Add Thick Coconut Milk

Gently pour in the thick coconut milk.

Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes. Do not boil.

Adjust salt and turn off the heat.

---

🌿 Serving Suggestions

Fish Molee is traditionally served with:

Appam – a Kerala-style lacy rice pancake

Steamed basmati rice – for a hearty meal

Idiyappam – string hoppers made from rice flour

Malabar parotta – for a rich and indulgent combo

Garnish the dish with a few fresh curry leaves and a drizzle of coconut oil just before serving for an extra flavour boost.

---

📝 Tips to Make the Best Fish Molee

Use fresh coconut milk for authentic taste, but good-quality canned coconut milk works too.

Do not overcook the fish; it should remain tender and flaky.

Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the green chillies.

Always cook the curry on low heat after adding thick coconut milk to avoid splitting.

---

🔍 SEO Keywords to Note

Fish Molee recipe

How to make fish molu

Kerala fish curry with coconut milk

South Indian fish curry

Easy Indian fish recipes

Coconut milk fish curry

---

📌 Final Thoughts

Fish Molee is a truly special dish that showcases the richness of Kerala cuisine with its simple ingredients and comforting flavours. It's perfect for those who prefer mildly spiced dishes yet crave something fragrant and delicious. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

So, the next time you have fresh fish and coconut milk on hand, you know what to make! Give this fish molu recipe a go and bring the flavours of coastal India to your plate.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Liked this recipe? Don’t forget to share, comment, and bookmark for your next cooking session!

#FishMolee #FishCurry #KeralaRecipes #IndianFood #SeafoodLovers #HomeCooking #BritishFoodie #CoconutCurry