Goan Pearl Spot Curry, also known as Kalundar Curry, is an authentic and flavorful Goan fish curry made with pearl spot fish, fresh coconut, and traditional spices. This pearl spot fish recipe is a must-try if you’re looking to explore the rich coastal flavors of Goan cuisine.
The star of this dish is the Pearl Spot fish, known locally in Goa as Kalundar and in Kerala as Karimeen. Its firm texture and mildly sweet flesh make it ideal for slow cooking in coconut-based gravies.
Whether you’re searching for a Goan fish curry recipe for rice, a Karimeen curry with coconut, or simply want to try something new, this Goan Kalundar Curry is perfect for a comforting coastal meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pearl Spot Fish Recipe
- Authentic Goan flavor with fresh coconut and whole spices
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive meals
- Ideal for seafood lovers and fans of Indian coastal cuisine
- Pairs perfectly with rice, fried fish, sol kadhi, and salad
🌿 Want more coastal recipes? Save this Pin: “Best Goan Fish Curry Recipes You Must Try”
Ingredients for Goan Pearl Spot Curry (Kalundar Curry)
This pearl spot curry recipe combines freshly grated coconut, spices, and the signature Pearl Spot fish to create a rich and tangy curry full of coastal character.
🐟 For the Curry:
- 4 pieces of Pearl Spot (Kalundar fish): A locally loved fish perfect for coconut curries
- 1 cup freshly grated coconut: Adds creaminess and an authentic coastal flavor
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped: Builds sweetness and balances the spice
- 1 tsp coriander seeds: Brings a subtle, citrusy depth
- 5 black peppercorns: Adds mild heat and warmth
- 1 small marble-sized ball of tamarind: Offers a sour punch typical of Goan fish curries
- 1 tsp turmeric powder: For earthy flavor and golden color
- 3 dry red Kashmiri chilies: Adds vibrant color and mild spice
- 1 tsp oil: To sauté the onions and bring the base to life
- Salt to taste: Essential to enhance all flavors
🔥 For Marination:
- 1 tsp turmeric powder: Helps remove the raw fish smell and boosts flavor
- 1 tsp red chili powder: Adds heat and bold color
- ½ tsp salt: Infuses the fish with flavor before cooking
💡 Pin-worthy tip: Use only freshly grated coconut for the best taste and texture!
How to Make Pearl Spot Curry | Goan Kalundar Fish Curry
Follow these easy steps to make this traditional Goan pearl spot fish curry recipe at home.
1. Marinate the Fish
Wash and clean the pearl spot (Kalundar) fish. Cut into 2–3 pieces if large.
Rub with turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coconut Masala
Grind grated coconut, tamarind, red chilies, coriander seeds, peppercorns, and turmeric with 1 cup water to make a smooth, medium-thick curry paste.
3. Cook the Masala
Heat oil in a kadai or wok. Sauté chopped onions until pink.
Add the ground coconut paste and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add ½ cup water if needed.
4. Add the Fish
Gently place the marinated fish into the curry. Cover and simmer on medium heat for 15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Avoid stirring too much to keep the fish pieces intact.
5. Serve Hot
Enjoy your Goan Pearl Spot Curry with hot steamed rice, crispy fried fish, sol kadhi, and a fresh salad for a full Goan thali experience.
Expert Tips for the Best Pearl Spot Fish Curry
- 🐟 Can’t find pearl spot? Use Kingfish (Surmai) or Mackerel (Bangda) as substitutes.
- 🥥 Fresh coconut is key—avoid desiccated or frozen if possible.
- 🧂 Adjust salt and spice levels according to your taste.
- 🍋 Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.
- 🍛 Leftover curry can be refrigerated and tastes even better the next day.
Explore More Goan Recipes
Looking for more traditional Goan fish recipes? Try these:
- Top 10 Goan Fish Curry Recipes
- Authentic Goan Prawn Curry with Coconut
- Goan Fish Fry (Rava Fry)
- Sol Kadhi – Kokum Coconut Drink
📌 Pin this: “Traditional Goan Pearl Spot Fish Curry Recipe” – Save for dinner ideas!
Final Thoughts
This pearl spot fish recipe is a true reflection of Goa’s love for bold flavors, fresh seafood, and comforting meals. Whether you’re a seafood lover or exploring Indian coastal cuisine, this Goan Kalundar Curry will not disappoint.
Goan Pearl Spot Curry (Kalundar Curry) | Authentic Goan Fish Curry
Ingredients
For the curry:
- 4 pieces Pearl Spot Kalundar fish
- 1 cup coconut freshly grated
- ½ medium onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 5 black peppercorns
- 1 small tamarind marble-sized ball
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 3 dry red Kashmiri chilies
- 1 teaspoon oil
- To taste salt
For marination:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prep the Fish:
- Wash, clean, and cut the Pearl Spot (Kalundar) fish into 2–3 pieces. Marinate with turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Curry Base:
- Grind the freshly grated coconut, tamarind, Kashmiri chilies, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, and turmeric powder into a smooth paste using 1 cup water. Ensure the consistency is just right—not too thick or watery.
Cook the Curry:
- Heat oil in a kadai or wok. Sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn light pink.
- Add the ground coconut spice paste and mix well. Add up to ½ cup water if needed to adjust consistency.
Add the Fish:
- Gently add the marinated Pearl Spot pieces. Let the fish cook in the masala gravy for about 15 minutes on medium heat. Avoid stirring too much to keep the fish from breaking.
Serve:
- Your flavorful Goan Pearl Spot Curry is ready! Serve it hot with steamed rice, fried fish, Sol Kadhi, and salad for a wholesome Goan meal.
Notes
- If Pearl Spot is not available, substitute with Kingfish (Surmai).
- Use fresh coconut for best results in any Goan fish curry.
- This pearl spot fish recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day.
📌 Save this recipe on Pinterest so you never lose it: “How to Make Goan Pearl Spot Curry – Karimeen Kalundar Curry”
💬 Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment and let me know how it turned out!
Looks delicious and easy to make, thanks for sharing the recipe…
Welcome @shiv