Published Jun 23, 2024 Updated Aug 24, 2024
Seafood Curry
Growing up, nasi kandar was more than just a meal for my family; it was an experience steeped in tradition and flavor. Nasi kandar, a cornerstone of Mamak or Indian-Muslim cuisine, features steamed rice paired with a medley of curries and side dishes such as garlic naan, samosa, and tandoori chicken, creating a colorful and aromatic feast. In my childhood, trips to nasi kandar restaurants were a family ritual. I have vivid memories of the old joint in Georgetown, Penang, where my late parents would take me. Every visit home to Penang includes at least one outing to enjoy nasi kandar at their favorite spot. I love seafood curry, especially squid curry, known as gulai sotong at the restaurant. In Malay, “gulai” means curry and “sotong” means squid. This dish is a staple in our family’s culinary adventures. Seafood curry is incredibly versatile and can be made with a variety of seafood like shrimp, fish, squid, and crab, allowing for delicious combinations. My late mother’s seafood curry recipe, especially her legendary gulai sotong, is a cherished family tradition that I’m grateful to have inherited.
Why You’ll Love This Squid Curry Recipe
Tender squid pieces cooked to perfection, absorbing flavorful spices. Rich and aromatic curry sauce made with coconut milk. A harmonious blend of spices, offering a balance of heat and depth. Comforting and satisfying, perfect served with rice or bread (such as naan or roti canai). A dish that delights with its unique textures and savory flavors.
What Goes Into Seafood Curry
squid – you can substitute with shrimp, tiger prawns, whole fish, or fish fillets. Feel free to use a combination of your favorite seafood options. seafood curry powder – I recommend Baba’s brand seafood curry powder, which is made in Malaysia. I also like Alagappa brand. shallots curry leaves – curry leaves impart a highly aromatic flavor to the curry, while the blend of curry spices adds a distinctive and unmistakable Indian curry kick. coconut milk tomato wedges hard-boiled eggs, optional – I love adding hard-boiled eggs to curry because they absorb the rich flavors of the spices and curry sauce, making the eggs deeply flavorful and yummy!
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients.
Curry Spices
Curry spices encompass a diverse blend of aromatic ingredients such as coriander, chilli, cumin, turmeric, fennel, fenugreek, black Pepper, white pepper and dhall, which impart complex flavors and vibrant colors to curry dishes. The secret ingredient for this recipe is the curry spices mix commonly found in Malaysia (pictured above), which includes fenugreek, black mustard, cumin, and fennel seeds. Adding these spices to the cooking process further elevates the dish with their aromatic flavors and unique blend of earthy notes, enhancing the depth and richness of the squid curry. To make the curry spices at home, simply combine equal portions of these spices and store them in an airtight container.
How To Make Squid Curry
Helpful Tips For Home Cooks
Making curry may seem intimidating for beginner home cooks, but don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with these quick tips that guarantee kitchen success:
Fresh Squid: Look for firm, clear-eyed squid with a plump tube, which may indicate eggs inside. Smaller squids are usually more tender, but larger ones are easier to handle. Clean Well: Peel skin, then remove the beak, quill and ink sac. Rinse under cold water while cleaning. Avoid Overcooking: Cook the squid quickly for 1-2 minutes and then remove it from the heat. Add the squid back towards the end of the cooking process.
Shopping Guide: If you’re in the United States or other Western countries, you can find frozen squid in boxes, or pre-cleaned whole squid or squid rings packed in plastic packages. For this recipe, it’s best to buy whole squid. Thaw the squid at room temperature before using.
What To Serve With This Recipe
For a wholesome Malaysian meal at home, I recommend the following recipes. I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please share your photo in the Comments section and consider giving it a 5-star rating. I can’t wait to see your creations! Want more easy and delicious recipes? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.
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Malaysian chicken curry Indian chicken curry Chinese squid recipe (Three Cup Squid) Thai squid recipe (Thai Basil Squid)
