How to make Tandoori Pomfret Food Recipe

 Pomfret fish recipe Tandoori Pomfret

Pomfret is the most sought after fish in Asia Pacific coast regions. It is very popular in the coastal region of India. Mainly Maharashtra, Chennai and Goa.

Pomfret originated from the Portugese word 'pampo'. A seawater fish with one single bone. Found in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. Pomfret have flat bodies and deeply forked tails. There are three types: silver, grey and black pomfret. They are typically prepared whole after the inner organs of the fish have been removed. They are cooked fresh and are either fried or steamed. They do not have a strong odor and aftertaste that most of the saltwater fish have.

Crisp and golden Tandoori Pomfret Food recipe

What is Tandoori Pomfret? 

Tandoori Pomfret is a flavorful Indian dish where pomfret fish is marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor (traditional clay oven) for a smoky, charred finish. The fish is tender, juicy on the inside, and crispy on the outside, with a burst of aromatic flavors from ingredients like turmeric, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, and cumin. The result is a deliciously spicy, tangy fish dish often served with naan, rice, or a fresh salad.

How to grill pomfret fish in Oven

You can easily grill a pomfret fish in Oven as well.  You can either make a tandoori Pomfret or grill pomfret in lemon butter sauce. Preheat the oven to 240°C for about 15 minutes and line a baking tray with aluminum foil.  Remove excess marination from the fish and place on the tray. Grease with some butter or oil and place inside the oven. Cook for 20 - 25 minutes  After 15 minutes flip the fish and bust with some butter and cook till crisp golden. You can boneless a pomfret and marinate with salt, pepper, mustard paste, lemon juice and olive oil. Grill the marinated pieces in an oven or on a pan. Make a lemon butter sauce and spread over them and serve.

Pomfret fish meat is white in color. There are many types Pomfret food recipe available and the best and unique  method of Pomfret cooking is Tandoori Pomfret. 
Because it is a healthy way of cooking since less amount of fat is required and the food is generally cooked in its own juice thus retaining it's natural flavors. It is not only easy to digest but also hygiene.

Serving tips
  • The smokiness of the tandoori pomfret pairs wonderfully with soft, warm naan or roti. The flatbread helps balance the richness of the fish and can be used to scoop up any extra marinade or chutney.
  • A side of jeera rice adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the bold spices in the tandoori pomfret. The cumin's warmth enhances the overall flavor of the meal.

Steps to make the recipe

Wash the Pomfret with water and make 5-6 incision on the body of the Pomfret in both sides.
5-6 Incision on Pomfret fish for Tandoori Pomfret Recipe
Make a small incision on the belly and remove all the inner organs. Wash in running water and clean all the dirt. Pat the Pomfret dry and apply half of the Lemon juice, ginger garlic paste and salt. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes. Take a mixing bowl add the yogurt and all other ingredients . Mix well to make a Tandoori red masala.  If you don't use Kashmiri Chilly Paste, you wouldn't get that prefer red color after cooking it.

Tandoori red Masala Recipe
Now mix the marinated Pomfret in the red masala very well. Note that the mixture enter the all incision parts of the Pomfret.
Marinated Pomfret in Tandoori masala
Refrigerated the Pomfret for 1 hour to absorb all the flavors. Take the Pomfret out of the fridge and thread in a iron Shewers . Sometimes when the Pomfret fish get cooked, it might slipped from the shewers. So to avoid such circumstances, you can add a support below the Pomfret in the Shewers. Such as a potato in the Shewers.
Marinated Pomfret in Shewer with a potato support
Cook in the preheat tandoor for 8-10 minutes till crisp and golden.
Pomfret cooking in Ovalclay Tandoor for Tandoori Pomfret Recipe

Pomfret cooking in Ovalclay charcoal Tandoor

If using Oven, preheat the oven to 180°C  and put the marinated Pomfret in a silver foiled covered tray and cooked  for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes flip it and apply little clarified butter or cooking oil  to cook further 5 minutes. Serve it hot with Mint Chutney or sauce.

Health Benefits of Pomfret Fish Tandoori

  1. High in Protein: Pomfret is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repairing tissues. It’s an ideal food for those looking to increase their protein intake without excess fat.

  2. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Pomfret fish is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and improve blood circulation.

  3. Low in Calories: Pomfret is a low-calorie fish, making it a great option for those watching their weight. Tandoori preparation uses minimal oil, making the dish even healthier.

  4. Vitamins & Minerals: Pomfret is rich in vitamins like B12, A, and D, which are essential for skin health, immune function, and maintaining bone strength. It also contains important minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and selenium.

  5. Boosts Immune System: The spices used in the tandoori marinade, such as turmeric and garlic, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.

  6. Supports Healthy Skin: Omega-3 fatty acids, combined with vitamins A and D, promote healthy skin and hair. They also help in combating skin aging.

Recipe Image

Tandoori Pomfret

⏱️ Prep: 20 min | 🍳 Cook: 10 min | 🍽️ Serves: 2
Published: Apr | Last Modified:

Pomfret fish is marinated in tandoori masala and then lined in a shewers and cooked in a  tandoor till crisp. Tandoori Pomfret can be cooked in an oven and on Tawa also. Served as an appetizer.

🥗 Ingredients

  • 1 medium size Pomfret fish
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 1/2 tablespoon red chilly paste(Kashmiri chilly paste)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garam masala.
  • 1/3 tablespoon red chili powder
  • 3 tablespoon hung curd
  • 1/4 teaspoon carom seeds ( ajwain).
  • Pinch of turmeric powder
  • 2 tablespoon cooking oil ( or mustard oil)
  • Salt to taste.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cut the all the fins and tail from the fish and make 3 - 4 long incision both sides of the Pomfret.
  2. Make a incision on the belly and remove all the inner organs. Now wash the pomfret nicely and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  3. Apply half of the ginger garlic paste lemon juice and salt. Let it marinate for 15 - 20 minutes. Take yoghurt in a mixing bowl and add cumin powder, red chilli powder,  garam masala, turmeric powder, salt,carom seeds, lemon juice, ginger garlic  paste and oil.
  4. Whisk  everything well to make  a  masala known as  tandoori masala. Apply this tandoori masala on the fish and make sure to enter in the incision parts of the fish as well.
  5. Keep it marinated for 60 minutes. Thread the marinated pomfret in a shewer and cook in a preheated tandoor for 10 minutes.
  6. Using Oven : preheat the oven and put the pomfret in a tray and bake for 5 minutes. Remove and brush oil on both sides. Flip and bake again for another 5 minutes till crisp. Remove and serve.
  7. Using tawa : heat a tawa or non stick pan with  oil in high flame for 1 minute. Slow the flame and place the pomfret carefully over it. Cook for 2 minutes.
  8. Flip and cook the other side for as well for another 2 minutes. Cook the pomfret till crisp and fully done.  Remove and serve

👨‍🍳 Chef’s Tips

  • Fresh Pomfret: For the best results, always use fresh pomfret. Its delicate texture and mild flavor absorb the marinade beautifully, making it perfect for the tandoori method.
  • Marinate Well: Marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 1-2 hours to let the spices seep into the flesh. The yogurt helps tenderize the fish, making it juicy while also enhancing the flavor.
  • Tandoor vs. Oven: If you don’t have a tandoor, a preheated oven works just fine. Set it to a high temperature (around 200°C / 392°F) and cook the fish on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil.

📊 Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 114 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: XXg

❓ FAQs

Q1:  Can I use frozen pomfret for tandoori?

While fresh pomfret is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen pomfret as long as you thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before marinating. Avoid using overly watery fish as it can affect the marinade.

Q2: Can I make tandoori pomfret without a tandoor?

 Yes, you can make tandoori pomfret in a regular oven or on a grill. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake for around 15-20 minutes. If grilling, cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes on each side.

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Q3.  How long should I marinate pomfret for the tandoori recipe?

Marinate the pomfret for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, marinate it for 1-2 hours. If you marinate it for too long (more than 3 hours), the fish might become too soft.

Q4. How do I know when the tandoori pomfret is done?

The tandoori pomfret is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The fish should have a crispy exterior with a moist and tender inside. You can also check by inserting a knife into the thickest part of the fish; it should come out clean.

Q5. How should I store leftover tandoori pomfret?

Leftover tandoori pomfret can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When reheating, avoid microwaving as it can make the fish soggy. Reheat in an oven or skillet to retain its crispiness.

If you love Pomfret fish then I am sure you would love the recipe of Pomfret fish tawa fry recipe as well.
For more mouth watering  recipes check below :- 

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4 Comments
  • Robinson
    Robinson August 20, 2019 at 6:12 PM

    Scrummy! I have an addiction for fish. Your recipe for pomfret fish simple and easy. I prepared it last night with the konkani fish recipe I found on PNT site.

  • saif khan
    saif khan August 24, 2019 at 2:31 PM

    Wow! This seafood tandoori recipe is amazing. I love this recipe. Thanks for sharing such an awesome recipe.

    Thanks. Homeplix

  • trisha
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