Family Sri Lankan Pan-Fried Fish Casserole

Assemble the ingredients: fish, black pepper, onion, olive oil, cumin, garlic, cinnamon.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the fish and cook until pan-fried.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of Sri Lankan flavors.

Add the remaining ingredients and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; the flavor should deepen as it cooks.

Plate and serve with traditional Sri Lankan accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.