🍛 Ilish Macher Dim-er Bhapa Jhal – Spicy Steamed Hilsa Roe 🐟🔥

A Bengali delicacy that brings out the finest flavors of Hilsa roe (Ilish Macher Dim), this dish is steamed in a spicy mustard-based gravy, giving it a rich and aromatic taste. If you love the authentic flavors of Bengali cuisine, this is a must-try!

🛒 Ingredients

For the Bhapa (Steamed) Hilsa Roe:

✔ Hilsa Roe (Ilish Macher Dim) – 200g
✔ Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp
✔ Salt – To taste
✔ Lime Juice – ½ tsp (optional)

For the Mustard Gravy:

✔ Black Mustard Seeds – 2 tbsp (soaked and blended into a paste)
✔ Yellow Mustard Seeds – 1 tbsp (optional, for milder taste)
✔ Poppy Seeds (Posto) Paste – 1 tbsp (optional)
✔ Mustard Oil – 3 tbsp
✔ Green Chilies (slit & whole) – 3-4
✔ Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp
✔ Red Chili Powder – ½ tsp
✔ Salt – To taste
✔ Sugar – ½ tsp (optional)
✔ Water – ¼ cup

👩‍🍳 Cooking Process

1️⃣ Preparing the Mustard Paste

1️⃣ Soak black and yellow mustard seeds in warm water for 10 minutes.
2️⃣ Blend into a smooth paste with a pinch of salt and a green chili.
3️⃣ Mix with poppy seed paste (optional) for a richer texture.

2️⃣ Marinating the Hilsa Roe

1️⃣ Clean the Hilsa Roe gently, ensuring it remains intact.
2️⃣ Rub with turmeric, salt, and lime juice. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

3️⃣ Preparing the Bhapa (Steamed) Mixture

1️⃣ In a bowl, mix mustard paste, mustard oil, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and sugar.
2️⃣ Add ¼ cup water to make a smooth, flowy consistency.
3️⃣ Add Hilsa Roe to this mixture, ensuring it is well-coated.
4️⃣ Place whole green chilies on top for extra aroma.

4️⃣ Steaming the Dish

🛑 Traditional Method (Using Banana Leaf & Steamer):
1️⃣ Wrap the Hilsa Roe & mustard mixture in a banana leaf and tie it securely.
2️⃣ Steam in a steamer or over boiling water for 15-20 minutes.

🔥 Modern Method (Using Pressure Cooker or Microwave):
1️⃣ Transfer the mixture to a steel tiffin box or heatproof bowl.
2️⃣ Steam in a pressure cooker without the whistle for 15 minutes OR
3️⃣ In a microwave, cover and cook on high for 5-7 minutes.

5️⃣ Finishing Touch

1️⃣ Drizzle extra mustard oil on top after steaming for enhanced aroma.
2️⃣ Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

✅ Serve with hot steamed rice and enjoy the authentic taste of Bengali Ilish delicacy! 🍚🔥

📌 Footnote:

Experience this exquisite dish at the Sundarban Hilsa Festival, also known as Sundarban Ilish Utsav, where food lovers gather to celebrate the King of Fish – Hilsa!

Bon Appétit! 🍴😋