Spiced Fish with Coconut

Featured in Simple seafood recipes you'll love.

Tender fish meets aromatic spices in a rich, creamy coconut sauce. An easy, flavorful dish filled with island vibes.
Maria from tastyhush
Updated on Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:39:27 GMT
A colorful fish dish with rice and zucchini, served with tomatoes and cilantro in a vibrant sauce. Pin it
A colorful fish dish with rice and zucchini, served with tomatoes and cilantro in a vibrant sauce. | tastyhush.com

I created my Cod Colombo dish after falling in love with Creole cooking during my Caribbean vacation. It's become my little sunshine in the kitchen that takes my taste buds (and my guests') on a journey. I love how the spices fill my kitchen with aromas that instantly remind me of the vibrant island markets.

Spice wonders

In my colombo, every ingredient tells a story. The cod becomes the star of an exotic adventure, swimming in a creamy coconut milk sauce. My colorful veggies mingle with the spices, while cilantro adds its fresh touch. This is my little trick to transport my dinner guests without them ever leaving the table!

My Creole shopping list

  • Cod: I pick it super fresh, its pearly flesh already promising something amazing.
  • Veggies: Sweet onions, a nice red bell pepper, a firm zucchini and ripe tomatoes.
  • Favorite spices: My precious colombo powder and turmeric that turns everything golden.
  • Coconut milk: I go for the creamiest kind for a rich sauce.
  • Lime: A tangy little gem that wakes up all the flavors.
  • Olive oil: The gentlest one in my cupboard.
  • Cilantro: Freshly picked for extra zip.
  • Rice: Basmati that makes the whole house smell wonderful.

My Creole cooking rhythm

Getting ready
I start by chopping all my veggies while humming a Caribbean tune. My fish waits patiently for its turn on the cutting board.
Spice symphony
I sauté my onions until they turn clear, then add my spices that immediately fill my kitchen with amazing smells.
Main attractions
My veggies join the party, followed by the smooth coconut milk. When everything's simmering gently, I carefully add my cod.
Final touches
A splash of lime, a sprinkle of cilantro, and my colombo is ready to wow everyone's taste buds!

My Creole tricks

Sometimes I switch up the fish depending on what looks good at my fishmonger's. Hake works just as wonderfully! For friends who like heat, I throw in a small Caribbean chili pepper. And when I'm watching my weight, I swap coconut milk for coconut yogurt - it's lighter but still super tasty!

A grilled fish fillet with creamy sauce, served with colorful vegetables and rice. Pin it
A grilled fish fillet with creamy sauce, served with colorful vegetables and rice. | tastyhush.com

Enjoying my colombo feast

I always serve my colombo with hot basmati rice that soaks up the flavorful sauce. A cool glass of Chardonnay really brings out the spices, but I also love offering my homemade coconut water with fresh mint. It's like a mini trip to the Caribbean with every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s colombo spice blend?
It’s a Caribbean mix made with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and pepper. You can find it in stores or make your own.
→ Can I use a different fish?
Absolutely, swap cod for haddock, hake, or salmon. Just choose firm fish that holds up during cooking.
→ How long can I store this?
You can keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Warm it gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
→ Is this dish spicy?
The spices add a lot of flavor but it’s not too hot. You can tweak the spice levels to match your taste.
→ What’s a good side dish?
Basmati rice is a classic choice. Try quinoa or steamed veggies if you want a lighter option.

Spiced Coconut Fish

A tropical twist on fish, simmered with a mix of bold spices and creamy coconut, paired with fresh veggies.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Maria

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Creole

Yield: 4 Servings (4 portions)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2 onions.
02 600 g of cod.
03 2 cloves of garlic.
04 1 red pepper.
05 1 zucchini.
06 2 ripe tomatoes.
07 200 ml coconut milk.
08 2 tablespoons of colombo powder.
09 1 tablespoon turmeric.
10 1 tablespoon lime juice.
11 1 tablespoon olive oil.
12 Fresh cilantro.
13 Salt and pepper.
14 Basmati rice.

Instructions

Step 01

Chop the onions finely, mince the garlic. Dice the pepper, zucchini, and tomatoes into small pieces.

Step 02

Heat the olive oil and cook the onions and garlic until golden brown.

Step 03

Blend in the turmeric and colombo powder, then toss in the vegetables. Cook for 5–7 minutes while stirring.

Step 04

Pour the coconut milk in, let it simmer gently. Add the cod, cover it, and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 05

Stir in the lime juice, season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with warm basmati rice.

Notes

  1. A mix of Creole flavors paired with tender cod for a delightful dish.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet.
  • Chef’s knife.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Fish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Protein: 32 g