1. Marinate the Salmon
Start by marinating the salmon fillets. In a bowl, mix together turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Rub this mixture all over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the fish with flavor and helps tenderize it.
2. Prepare the Sauce Base
While the salmon is marinating, prepare the curry sauce. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the finely chopped onions. Cook the onions until they are golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning—this should take about 10 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic and ginger are fragrant. These ingredients form the aromatic base of your curry, adding depth and complexity to the flavor.
4. Incorporate the Spices
Now it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the garam masala, turmeric powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Stir the spices into the onion mixture, cooking for about 2 minutes to release their essential oils and intensify their flavors.
5. Add Tomatoes
Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to combine it with the spice and onion mixture. Let this cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and meld with the spices. The sauce should thicken and deepen in color during this time.
6. Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Be sure to mix thoroughly to prevent the cream from curdling. Once the cream is fully incorporated, add a pinch of salt to taste.
7. Simmer the Sauce
Add 1/2 cup of water to the sauce, stirring well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 10 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to blend together, creating a rich, cohesive sauce.
8. Cook the Salmon
While the sauce is simmering, heat a separate pan over medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, place the marinated salmon fillets in the pan. Cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown crust. Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be tender and flaky.
9. Combine Salmon with Curry
Gently transfer the cooked salmon fillets to the simmering curry sauce. Spoon the sauce over the salmon, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the salmon cook in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
10. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and garnish the butter salmon curry with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Tips and Tricks
Choosing the Right Salmon
When selecting salmon for this recipe, opt for wild-caught varieties if possible. They tend to have a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farm-raised salmon. Fresh salmon is best, but if you’re using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
Balancing Spices
The key to a great curry is balancing the spices. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder. For a spicier kick, you can add more or include a fresh green chili when sautéing the onions.
Cream Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. This will give the curry a slightly different flavor but still maintain the creamy texture.
Make Ahead
This butter salmon curry can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Butter salmon curry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
- Steamed Basmati Rice: The fragrant, long-grain rice is a classic accompaniment that soaks up the curry sauce beautifully.
- Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up the rich sauce.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish with cucumber and mint that balances the spices in the curry.
- Salad: A fresh, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients in this butter salmon curry:
Per Serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.5g
Health Benefits
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits, including reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
- Protein: This dish is high in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The spices and vegetables in the curry provide a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
Conclusion
Making an easy butter salmon curry at home is a delightful way to bring the flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked salmon, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The recipe is straightforward, yet it delivers a complex and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
Remember, the key to a great curry is patience and love—take your time to let the spices meld and the flavors develop. Enjoy the process of cooking, and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adjusting the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this detailed guide and that it inspires you to try making butter salmon curry at home. Happy cooking!