Coconut Milk Poached Fish

Elevate your dining experience with this Coconut Milk Poached Fish recipe, where tender fish fillets are lovingly simmered in a fragrant and creamy coconut milk broth. This dish merges the rich flavors of coconut with aromatic spices, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any season. Serve with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for a delightful, heart-healthy dinner option that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-24T07:32:55.515Z

This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. The vibrant colors of the fish and the creamy broth create an enticing presentation.

A Flavorful Coconut Broth

The hallmark of this Coconut Milk Poached Fish recipe is the aromatic coconut broth. Composed of creamy coconut milk combined with vegetable broth, garlic, and ginger, this enticing liquid serves as a perfect canvas for the delicate flavors of the fish. The incorporation of lime juice and soy sauce adds a hint of brightness and depth, enhancing the overall taste experience. This vibrant broth not only tenderizes the fish but also infuses it with rich flavors, making every bite a delight.

Using fresh ingredients like minced garlic and grated ginger can elevate the taste of your broth significantly. Garlic infuses a lovely pungency, while ginger adds warmth and a slightly spicy note, creating a harmonious balance. As the fish simmers in this fragrant broth, it absorbs these delightful flavors, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and indulgent.

For an added layer of flavor complexity, consider experimenting with spices such as curry powder or turmeric in your broth. These spices not only enhance the dish's aroma but also provide wonderful health benefits. The result is a nourishing and flavorful experience that will enchant your taste buds.

Selecting the Right Fish

Choosing the right type of fish is crucial to the success of this dish. Cod and tilapia are excellent options due to their mild flavors and flaky textures, making them ideal for poaching. When selecting your fish, look for fillets that are fresh and firm, with a clean smell. Avoid fish that appears discolored or has a strong, unpleasant odor.

Every type of fish brings its unique characteristics to the dish. For instance, salmon may add richness, while haddock could offer a more delicate flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite white fish, as long as it holds up well during poaching. Each variety will impart its own nuances to the coconut broth, making for a versatile recipe.

Taking the time to source high-quality fish not only ensures better flavor but also contributes to a more sustainable dining experience. Look for fish that has been responsibly farmed or caught to support sustainable practices and enjoy a meal that is both delicious and ethical.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut Milk Poached Fish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal option. Serving it alongside jasmine or basmati rice allows you to soak up the flavorful broth and enjoy every last drop. For a lighter option, opt for steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which add a refreshing crunch and brightness to the plate.

To elevate your dining experience further, consider incorporating a fresh salad with lime vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will contrast nicely with the creamy texture of the coconut broth, creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, garnishing your dish with fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the overall flavor.

Don't hesitate to explore additional flavors with condiments such as chili flakes or sriracha if you enjoy a little heat. A sprinkle of these can transform your dish into a fiery delight, catering it to your spice preference. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability; customize it to suit your taste!

Ingredients

For the Poached Fish

4 fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

These ingredients will create a flavorful and fragrant poached fish dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Coconut Broth

In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, vegetable broth, garlic, ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until simmering.

Poach the Fish

Gently add the fish fillets to the simmering broth. Cover the pan and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Carefully remove the fish from the broth and serve garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with steamed rice or fresh vegetables.

This simple and delicious method ensures the fish remains tender and juicy while absorbing the rich coconut flavors.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the perfect poach, monitor the cooking temperature closely. Avoid boiling the broth as it can lead to tough fish. Instead, maintain a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process to ensure even heat distribution and tenderness.

If you're preparing this meal for guests, you can easily multitask by preparing the broth in advance and poaching the fish just before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also allows you to present a fresh and warm dish at the table.

Consider using a fish spatula when handling delicate fish fillets. This tool will help in gently lifting the fish from the broth without breaking it apart, ensuring a beautiful presentation.

Nutritional Benefits

This Coconut Milk Poached Fish dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers impressive health benefits. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting optimal brain function.

Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy and may support weight management. Additionally, it contains important vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being.

Pairing this dish with nutrient-dense sides, such as brown rice and colorful vegetables, boosts fiber intake, contributing to digestive health and keeping you feeling satisfied. Enjoy a balanced meal that's as good for your body as it is for your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before poaching.

→ What type of fish is best for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod or tilapia works best, but you can also try salmon for a richer flavor.