How to Cook Cape Malay Pickled Fish in 5 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Cape malay pickled fish –Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Homemade Cape Malay-style pickled fish. This dish is not only full of flavor but also carries the rich, vibrant culinary heritage of the Cape Malay community. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this pickled fish will tantalize your taste buds with its sweet and tangy profile. Let’s get started!

Homemade Cape Malay-style Pickled Fish

This traditional recipe allows the fish to marinate in a sweet and spicy brine, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Here’s everything you need to prepare this beautiful dish.

Homemade Cape Malay-style pickled fish

Ingredients

  • 500g firm white fish (such as hake or snoek)
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly and cutting it into fillets. Season the fillets with salt and set aside for about 30 minutes.
  2. In a pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, sliced onion, garlic, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, turmeric, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the fish fillets until golden and cooked through, usually about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  4. Once cooked, remove the fish and place it in a clean glass or ceramic dish. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the fish while it’s still hot, ensuring that the fillets are fully submerged in the pickling liquid.
  5. Let the fish cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours for the flavors to fully develop. It’s even better if you let it marinate for a few days!
  6. Before serving, garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Enjoy it chilled with some crusty bread or as part of a starter platter.

With its aromatic spices and vibrant flavors, Homemade Cape Malay-style pickled fish is sure to impress. This dish encapsulates the essence of shared meals and festivity. So, gather your loved ones and let’s bring a taste of the Cape into your kitchen!