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Authentic Sri Lankan Fish Ambulthiyal (Sour Fish Curry)

Servings: 5 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
A Tangy Coastal Delight Straight from Sri Lanka’s Southern Beaches
Fish Ambulthiyal Recipe: Tangy Sri Lankan Sour Fish Curry pinit

Experience the bold, tangy flavors of Sri Lanka’s iconic Fish Ambulthiyal, a sour fish curry simmered with Garcinia (goraka) and aromatic spices. This traditional dish, delivered straight to your kitchen with CeylonEglee’s fresh ingredients, captures the essence of coastal Sri Lanka. Perfect for spice lovers and culinary adventurers!

There’s nothing quite like the bold, tangy flavors of Sri Lanka’s iconic Fish Ambulthiyal (Sour Fish Curry). This dish, steeped in tradition, combines succulent tuna with the unique sourness of Garcinia (goraka) and a fiery spice blend. Whether you’re a local in Mirissa or a traveler craving a taste of the coast, this recipe brings Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage to your kitchen.

During my last visit to Ahangama, I stumbled upon a beachside eatery serving Ambulthiyal so memorable that I begged the chef for tips. The secret? Fresh kelawalla (tuna) and quality spices—both of which I now source effortlessly from CeylonEglee. Their delivery service covers Mirissa, Weligama, Ahangama, and Midigama, making it easy to recreate this dish authentically.

Difficulty: Intermediate Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 20 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Cooking Temp: 80  C Servings: 5 Estimated Cost: $ 13 Calories: 220
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Fish Ambulthiyal is a beloved Sri Lankan dish where tuna is slow-cooked in a thick, sour-spicy paste made with Garcinia, black pepper, and curry leaves. Its intense flavors pair perfectly with steamed rice or coconut roti.

Fresh & Spicy Essentials

InstructionCrafting the Perfect Ambulthiyals

Step 01

  1. Marinate the Fish:

    Rinse tuna and cut into thick cubes. Mix with turmeric, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cardamom-ginger-garlic paste. Let marinate for 20 minutes.

Step 02

  1. Prepare the Sour Base:

    In a clay pot or heavy pan, combine marinated fish, Garcinia water, curry leaves, pandan, green chilies, and cardamom. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.

Step 03

  1. Thicken the Curry:

    Add curry powder and cinnamon. Stir gently to avoid breaking the fish. Cook until the sauce reduces to a glossy, dark paste (~25 minutes).

Step 04

  1. Serve:

    Garnish with fresh curry leaves. Pair with steamed rice or coconut roti.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5


Amount Per Serving
Calories 220kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 45mg15%
Sodium 450mg19%
Potassium 500mg15%
Protein 28g57%

Vitamin A 8 IU
Vitamin C 15 mg
Calcium 10 mg
Iron 4 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • For Extra Tanginess: Add 2–3 extra Garcinia pieces.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with jackfruit (non-traditional but tasty).
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days; flavors intensify over time!
Keywords: Fish Ambulthiyal, Sour Fish Curry, Sri Lankan Fish Curry, Garcinia Curry, Tuna Curry

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Can I use lime instead of Garcinia?v

No—Garcinia’s unique sourness is irreplaceable. Buy goraka here.

Is CeylonEglee’s tuna sustainably sourced?

Yes! All seafood is fresh and ethically caught.

Can I freeze Fish Ambulthiyal?

Yes, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.

What if I can’t handle spicy food?

Reduce chili powder to ½ tbsp.

Do you deliver to Galle or Matara?

Currently, we serve Mirissa, Weligama, Ahangama, and Midigama. Check updates here.

Sumith D Abeysinhhe

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