Delicious Punjabi Fish Recipes You’ll Love Punjabi cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich traditions, and its fish recipes are no exception. From the spicy Amritsari Fish Fry to the succulent Fish Curry simmered in aromatic spices, every dish reflects the vibrant culinary heritage of Punjab. These recipes combine fresh, locally sourced ingredients with time-honored cooking techniques, creating meals that are both hearty and memorable. The perfect blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric ensures each bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a first-timer, Punjabi fish dishes promise a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Amritsari Fish
- Description: A popular street food from Amritsar, this dish features marinated tilapia fish fillets coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The marinade typically includes a mix of spices like ajwain (carom seeds), red chili powder, and garam masala, giving the fish a bold, tangy flavour.
- Serving Style: Usually served with green chutney and a sprinkle of chaat masala, often paired with pickled onions and lemon wedges.
Fish Curry (Punjabi Style)
- Description: This is a robust and flavourful fish curry made with a base of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger, spiced with cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The curry is simmered until the basa fish absorbs the rich, tangy gravy.
- Serving Style: Served with steamed rice or roti, and sometimes garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
Prawn Masala
- Description: A spicy and aromatic dish where prawns are cooked in a thick tomato and onion gravy, seasoned with traditional Punjabi spices like garam masala, cumin, and red chili powder. The dish often has a slight tang from the use of yogurt or lemon juice.
- Serving Style: Best enjoyed with naan, paratha, or jeera rice.
Machhli Amritsari Tikka
- Description: This is a variation of the traditional chicken tikka, made with marinated salmon or cod chunks. The fish is marinated in a blend of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and a mix of Punjabi spices, then skewered and grilled to perfection.
- Serving Style: Often served with mint chutney, sliced onions, and a wedge of lime.
Tandoori Fish
- Description: Fish fillets or whole king fish are marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The marinated fish is then cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), giving it a smoky flavour and tender texture.
- Tandoori spices are also good
- Serving Style: Typically served with naan, tandoori roti, or salad, along with a side of chutney.
These dishes showcase the rich and diverse flavours of Punjabi cuisine while adhering to a pescatarian diet.
Dabba & Spices
To elevate your Punjabi fish dish to the next level, pair it with authentic sides like buttery naan, basmati rice, or a refreshing salad. The soft, flaky texture of the fish perfectly complements the creaminess of these sides, creating a balanced meal. Don’t forget to add a dollop of tangy mint chutney or spicy pickles for an extra kick. These pairings not only complete the dish but also offer an authentic taste of Punjab's rich culinary heritage.