Add the thick first-press coconut milk only at the very end and never let it boil — keep it at a bare shiver; a rolling boil splits coconut milk into oily curds and grainy solids, and there's no recovering the silk once it breaks.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Rub fish with turmeric and salt; rest 15 min. Heat coconut oil, temper curry leaves, then soften onion, ginger and slit chilies without browning.15 min
Add turmeric and the thin coconut milk; bring to a gentle simmer.5 min
Slide in the fish, add a few tomato wedges, and poach gently 8–10 min until cooked through.10 min
Lower the heat right down, stir in the thick coconut milk, warm through without boiling, and finish with a drizzle of raw coconut oil.3 min
Can you make Meen Moilee in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Meen Moilee? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Meen Moilee ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Meen Moilee gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Meen Moilee vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
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