Authentic Fish Ambulthiyal Recipe: Tangy Sri Lankan Sour Fish Curry Delivered to Your Doorstep
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the vibrant tang of Fish Ambulthiyal , a classic Sri Lankan sour fish curry that balances fiery spices with lip-smacking tamarind sweetness. Whether you’re a local craving homestyle flavors or a traveler missing the taste of Mirissa’s coastal kitchens, this dish delivers a punch of authenticity.
At ceyloneglee.com , we’re passionate about bringing traditional recipes to your table—fresh ingredients and all.
Living in Weligama, I’ve spent years perfecting this curry, inspired by beachside stalls where the aroma of coconut oil and curry leaves wafts through the air. Now, you can recreate it at home or skip the prep and order our ready-to-cook kit —delivered straight to your door.

Ingredients
Serve 4 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins
- 500g fresh tuna or kingfish (order premium cuts from ceyloneglee.com/seafood )
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste (or fresh tamarind from ceyloneglee.com/pantry )
- 1 coconut (grated, or use our pre-packed coconut milk)
- 1 onion , sliced
- 2 tomatoes , diced
- 2 green chilies , slit
- 4 garlic cloves , minced
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 2 tsp curry powder (try our house blend at ceyloneglee.com/spices )
- Curry leaves & coconut oil for cooking
Substitutions :
- Vegan? Swap fish for jackfruit.
- Short on time? Use our Ambulthiyal Spice Mix for instant flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Tamarind Base
Soak tamarind in warm water for 10 mins, then strain to extract the sour liquid. This tangy base is the heart of the curry.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat coconut oil in a clay pot. Sauté onions, garlic, and curry leaves until golden. Add turmeric and curry powder—watch for that fragrant sizzle!
Step 3: Cook the Fish
Add fish pieces and coat them in the spice mix. Pour in tamarind liquid and coconut milk. Simmer until the fish flakes easily.
Pro Tip : Let the curry rest for 5 mins after cooking—the flavors deepen, just like the ones from Weligama’s best kitchens!
Tips & Variations
- Add veggies : Throw in okra or eggplant for extra texture.
- Spice it up : Use ceyloneglee.com’s Hot Pepper Mix for an extra kick.
- Serve it right : Pair with steamed rice or string hoppers from our Ready-to-Eat section.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 15g | Fat: 18g
Dietary Tags : Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Paleo-friendly
Conclusion
Why settle for bland takeout when Fish Ambulthiyal can be yours in 45 mins? For days when cooking feels like a chore, ceyloneglee.com delivers fresh kits with pre-measured spices and sustainably sourced fish—from Mirissa to Weligama in under 2 hours .Tag us in your curry pics and explore our Sri Lankan Recipe Hub for more island favorites!
1. What is Fish Ambulthiyal, and what makes it unique?
Fish Ambulthiyal is a traditional Sri Lankan sour fish curry known for its tangy flavor, derived from tamarind or goraka, and its rich blend of spices like turmeric, black pepper, and chili powder. The fish is marinated with a paste made from ground goraka, garlic, and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection 9. This dish is particularly popular in the southern coastal regions of Sri Lanka, where it’s often served with rice or string hoppers.
2. Can I use any type of fish for this recipe?
While you can experiment with various types of fish, firm white fish like tuna, kingfish, or yellowfin tuna works best because it holds up well during cooking without falling apart. For premium cuts, check out our Fresh Seafood Selection at ceyloneglee.com
3. How do I store leftover Ambulthiyal, and how long will it last?
Leftover Ambulthiyal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the flavors. Pro tip: The curry tastes even better the next day as the spices deepen over time.
4. Is Fish Ambulthiyal suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! Fish Ambulthiyal is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following low-carb or keto diets. It’s also high in protein and healthy fats from coconut milk, offering a nutritious meal option.
5. Can I order pre-made Fish Ambulthiyal online?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or want to enjoy authentic flavors without the prep work, you can order ready-to-eat Fish Ambulthiyal directly from ceyloneglee.com . We deliver fresh meals straight to your doorstep—from Mirissa to Weligama—in under 5 hours