Cook Up a Celebration for the Feast of Saint Thomas the Apostle

Silvia Patalano provides a fish curry recipe for the July 3 feast day of Saint Thomas the Apostle. Download our printable recipe card. 

Who Is Saint Thomas the Apostle?  

Saint Thomas, often referred to as "Doubting Thomas," was one of Jesus' twelve apostles. He is best known for doubting Jesus’ Resurrection until he saw Him in person. He then dedicated the rest of his life toward discipleship, ultimately landing in India where he would live out the rest of his days. Many Indian Catholic communities consider Saint Thomas a patron saint, representing the earliest introduction of Catholicism to the area. His feast day is July 3.

Traditional Foods for Saint Thomas' Feast Day  

It goes without saying that traditional Indian cuisine is a good place to start in honoring Saint Thomas. Try your hand at different curries and spice blends, vegetarian or not: Indian cuisine is so diverse you will not run out of ideas! Kerala Fish Curry is a popular and easy dish for even the most beginner cook.  

Kerala Fish Curry  

Ingredients: 

• 1 lb fish fillet (de-boned if whole)
• 1 cup coconut milk 
• 2 tbsp coconut oil 
• 1 onion, finely chopped 
• 1 medium tomato, chopped 
• 2 green chilies, slit 
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste 
• 1 tsp turmeric powder 
• 1 tbsp red chili powder 
• 1 tbsp coriander powder 
• 1 tsp mustard seeds 
• 1 sprig curry leaves 
• Salt to taste  

Directions:  

1. Heat coconut oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. When they splutter, add curry leaves.
2. Add onions, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until onions turn golden.
3. Add tomatoes and cook until they soften.
4. Mix in turmeric, chili, and coriander powders. Cook for a minute.
5. Add coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the fish pieces and cook until the fish is done.
7. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice.