Burmese Fish Cake Curry Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Burmese Fish Cake Curry Ingredients

Burmese Fish Cake Curry Instructions

  1. Cut the white fish fillets into chunks and place them in a food processor.
  2. Add half of the chopped shallots, half of the minced garlic, half of the grated ginger, half of the minced lemongrass, half of the sliced chilies, chopped cilantro leaves, fish sauce, soy sauce, turmeric powder, ground white pepper, panko breadcrumbs, and the egg to the food processor with the fish.
  3. Pulse the mixture until it forms a smooth, sticky paste.
  4. With wet hands, shape the fish mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
  5. Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  6. Fry the fish cakes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
  7. In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of peanut oil over medium heat.
  8. Add the remaining shallots, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and chilies to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  9. Stir in the turmeric powder and cook for 30 seconds.
  10. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, until they begin to soften.
  11. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock, stirring to combine.
  12. Add the palm sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  13. Carefully add the fried fish cakes to the curry base.
  14. Simmer the curry for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fish cakes to absorb the sauce.
  15. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional fish sauce or soy sauce if needed.
  16. Serve the fish cake curry hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves and lime wedges on the side.

Estimated Calories: 250, Servings: 4

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About Fish Cake Curry Recipe

If you've ever doubted that a homemade Burmese Fish Cake Curry recipe could be both easy and delicious, you're not alone-I was right there with you. But after trying this simple recipe, I'm officially a convert. The combination of fresh ingredients and authentic spices creates a curry that's not just tasty, but also surprisingly quick to whip up. Forget takeout; this is the best way to bring the flavors of Burma into your own kitchen without breaking a sweat.
What makes this Fish Cake Curry recipe stand out is how it balances being both authentic and approachable. Even if you're new to Burmese cuisine, the step-by-step instructions and helpful tips make it easy to follow. The ingredients list is refreshingly straightforward, so you won't need to hunt down anything too exotic. I was skeptical about how to make something so flavorful in under an hour, but this recipe proves it's possible. The result? A perfect, hearty curry that's sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
If you're searching for the best, most delicious way to enjoy a quick and easy homemade meal, this is it. The Fish Cake Curry is packed with flavor, and the recipe offers plenty of tips for getting it just right. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight dinner or want to wow your friends with an authentic Burmese dish, this recipe delivers. Trust me, once you taste how tasty and satisfying this curry is, you'll wonder why you ever doubted it in the first place!

Fish Cake Curry Pairings

The best flavors to accompany a Burmese fish cake curry are those that balance its rich, savory notes with a touch of brightness and freshness. A quick squeeze of lime over the dish can add a zesty lift, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint brings a healthy, herbal aroma that cuts through the curry's depth. For a delicious contrast, a side of pickled vegetables offers a tangy crunch, making each bite more dynamic. The interplay of spicy, sour, and herbal elements creates a great harmony, elevating the overall experience and making the meal feel both satisfying and easy to enjoy.
A good side to serve with this recipe is a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice, which soaks up the curry sauce and provides a soft, fluffy texture that complements the fish cakes. For a fast and easy addition, consider a simple cucumber salad tossed with a light dressing of rice vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes. This cool, crisp salad is not only healthy but also refreshes the palate between bites, making the meal feel lighter and more balanced. The combination of warm rice and chilled salad is a great way to round out the flavors and textures on the plate.
When it comes to drinks, a delicious non-alcoholic option like a lemongrass iced tea works wonders with Burmese fish cake curry. The aromatic, citrusy notes of lemongrass are a good match for the spices in the curry, and the coolness of the tea provides a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's warmth. For those who prefer something a bit more festive, a light lager or a crisp white wine can also be a great pairing, as their clean, bright profiles help cleanse the palate and keep the meal feeling easy and enjoyable from start to finish.

Fish Cake Curry Tips

The aroma of this Burmese-inspired Fish Cake Curry recipe is instantly inviting, with notes of lemongrass and ginger mingling with the subtle brininess of the fish. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality fish cakes-homemade versions elevate the dish, offering a springy texture that soaks up the curry's rich, coconut-infused sauce. The curry itself should be silky and vibrant, with a balance of heat and sweetness that makes every bite both comforting and exciting.
To achieve the perfect consistency, simmer gently and avoid overcooking the fish cakes, preserving their tender bite. For a truly authentic experience, serve with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The interplay of creamy sauce and aromatic spices creates a delicious, mouthwatering finish. If you're looking for an easy, quick, and tasty meal, this simple recipe is ideal-just follow a few key tips: toast your spices for depth, and don't skimp on the aromatics. The result is a homemade curry that's both satisfying and memorable, capturing the essence of the best Burmese flavors.

Fish Cake Curry Story

The first encounter with this dish was a test of my own boundaries, as it challenged the recipes I grew up with and the flavors I considered familiar. The aroma was both inviting and foreign, a blend of spices that seemed to dance in the air, promising something both delicious and unknown. My cultural background had always favored subtlety and restraint, so the boldness of this dish felt almost rebellious. Yet, as I tasted it, the texture surprised me-soft yet substantial, with a quick burst of heat that lingered. It was a reminder that sometimes the best experiences come from stepping outside what is comfortable.
Navigating my dietary restrictions, I hesitated at first, questioning whether this dish could be considered healthy or good for me. The richness of the sauce and the interplay of flavors seemed at odds with my usual choices, which tend to be lighter and more restrained. However, the fast melding of spices and the easy way the flavors unfolded on my palate made me reconsider my assumptions. There was a great satisfaction in discovering that something so different could still align with my values, if only I allowed myself to be open to it.
Ultimately, this dish became more than just a meal; it was a lesson in embracing the unfamiliar. The experience taught me that delicious food does not always have to fit within the confines of tradition or expectation. Sometimes, the best recipes are those that challenge us, that ask us to question what we think we know about flavor, texture, and even ourselves. The lingering warmth and complexity of the dish stayed with me, a sensory memory of growth and acceptance, and a reminder that the journey to understanding can be as rewarding as the destination itself.

Fish Cake Curry Quick Mistake Fixes

A common pitfall with this dish is an overly salty profile, which can easily overpower the delicate flavors of the fish and the aromatic spices. The best approach is to taste frequently, as the saltiness can intensify during simmering. If the curry veers toward being too salty, a quick fix is to add a splash of coconut milk or a handful of diced tomatoes, which will mellow the salt and bring a healthy, delicious balance. A squeeze of fresh lime at the end can also brighten the flavors, making the dish feel lighter and more vibrant, while still maintaining that good, savory depth.
Texture is key to a great fish cake curry, and dryness can be a real issue if the cakes are overcooked or the sauce is reduced too much. The best fish cakes should be moist and tender, soaking up the curry without falling apart. If the cakes seem dry, a fast and easy remedy is to ladle a bit more sauce over them just before serving, allowing them to absorb the flavors and regain their succulence. This not only improves the mouthfeel but also ensures every bite is infused with the rich, spicy aroma that makes this dish so appealing.
Balancing flavors at the last minute is essential for a truly delicious result. Sometimes, the curry may taste a bit flat or one note, lacking the complexity that makes it memorable. A quick adjustment with a dash of fish sauce, a sprinkle of sugar, or a handful of fresh herbs can elevate the dish instantly. The best curries have a harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, and a good chef knows how to tweak these elements for a vibrant, easy-to-love meal. A final garnish of chopped cilantro or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both the appearance and the flavor profile.