Aye Aye Aye! Ambot Tik, Come Try!

Namaste and Sasriakal my lovely foodies! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, ready to spice up your life with another delicious recipe straight from my kitchen! Today, we are diving deep into the tangy, fiery, and utterly irresistible world of Ambot Tik!

For my Goan friends, a warm Bom Zzim! This dish is a true Goan heartthrob!

Ambot Tik is a special dish in Goa, India. It’s usually made during big celebrations like Christmas, Easter, and family parties. People love to eat it when the weather is cooler, like in the winter months. It brings families together and makes everyone feel happy and full!

A Pinch of History, A Dash of Legend

Ambot Tik, meaning “sour and spicy,” boasts a history as vibrant as its flavors. This dish is believed to have originated in Goa, a beautiful state on the western coast of India. Influenced by Portuguese cuisine, Goan food is a delightful fusion of Indian spices and European techniques. Ambot Tik is a perfect example, showcasing the Goan love for seafood and bold flavors. Passed down through generations, each family has their own secret twist, making every Ambot Tik experience unique.

Get Ready to Cook!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

What You Need (Ingredients):

500g Shark or any firm white fish, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large Onion (Pyaaz), finely chopped
2 Tomatoes (Tamatar), finely chopped
1 inch Ginger (Adrak), grated
6-8 cloves Garlic (Lahsun), minced
2-3 Green Chillies (Hari Mirch), slit lengthwise (adjust to your spice level!)
1 tbsp Red Chilli Powder (Lal Mirch Powder)
1 tsp Turmeric Powder (Haldi Powder)
1 tbsp Coriander Powder (Dhania Powder)
1/2 tsp Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder)
2 tbsp Vinegar (Sirka) – Coconut vinegar is best, but any will do!
2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Tel)
Salt (Namak) to taste
Fresh Coriander Leaves (Hara Dhania) for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking!

Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, gently mix the fish with 1/2 tsp turmeric powder and a pinch of salt. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This removes any fishy smell and firms up the fish.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step is crucial for a flavourful base.
Spice it Up: Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chillies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears. Now, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and become mushy.
Masala Magic: Stir in the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Sauté for another minute, ensuring the spices don’t burn. Add a splash of water if needed.
Ambot Tik Time: Gently add the marinated fish to the pan. Coat the fish evenly with the masala. Be careful not to break the fish pieces.
Sour Power: Pour in the vinegar and add salt to taste. Mix gently.
Simmer and Simmer: Add about 1 cup of water, just enough to cover the fish. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. The gravy should thicken slightly.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot!

Chef Curry’s Tips for a Perfect Ambot Tik

Fresh is Best: Use the freshest fish you can find for the best flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the green chillies and red chilli powder to your preferred spice level. Remember, Ambot Tik is meant to be spicy!
Vinegar is Key: Don’t skimp on the vinegar! It’s what gives Ambot Tik its signature tangy flavor.
Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the fish to prevent it from breaking apart during cooking.

Cooking it Your Way!

Gas Stove/Induction Stove: The traditional method, as described above, works perfectly on both.
Pressure Cooker: For a quicker version, pressure cook for 2 whistles on medium heat. Be careful not to overcook the fish!
Slow Cooker/Crockpot: A fantastic option for a hands-off approach. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Oven: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, covered with foil.
Microwave: Not recommended, as it can easily overcook the fish.
Air Fryer: Not suitable for this recipe.

Nutrition Nuggets

Ambot Tik is a good source of protein from the fish. It also contains vitamins and minerals from the spices and vegetables. However, be mindful of the oil and salt content.

Serving Suggestions

Ambot Tik is traditionally served with steamed rice. It also pairs well with Goan pao (bread) or even roti. A side of kachumber (Indian salad) adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy and tangy flavors.

Your Turn to Cook!

Now that you have the recipe, go ahead and try making this delightful Ambot Tik at home. I promise, it’s easier than it looks! Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let them experience the magic of Goan cuisine.

Happy Cooking, my friends!

Aye Aye Aye! Ambot Tik, Come Try!