Ilish Macher Jhal – Spicy Hilsa Curry Recipe

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🍲 Ilish Macher Jhal – Spicy Hilsa Curry Recipe

Hilsa, locally known as Ilish, is an iconic Bengali fish beloved for its delicate taste and texture. “Ilish Macher Jhal” is a traditional spicy curry that celebrates the rich flavors of Bengal.

🛒 Ingredients:

🐟 Fresh Hilsa Fish (Ilish) – 6-8 pieces
🌶️ Green Chilies – 4-5 (slit)
🌾 Mustard Seeds – 2 tbsp (soaked)
🥥 Grated Coconut – 2 tbsp (optional)
🌱 Turmeric Powder – 1 tsp
🍅 Tomato – 1 medium-sized (finely chopped)
🧂 Salt – to taste
🥄 Mustard Oil – 4-5 tbsp
🍃 Fresh Coriander Leaves – handful (for garnishing)
💧 Water – 1 cup

🍳 Cooking Process:

Step 1 – Marinate Fish

Clean the Hilsa fish pieces carefully and pat dry.
Sprinkle ½ tsp turmeric powder and salt; rub gently and marinate for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2 – Prepare Spice Paste

Blend soaked mustard seeds with grated coconut and 2 green chilies into a smooth paste. Keep aside.

Step 3 – Cooking the Curry

Heat mustard oil in a pan until it smokes lightly, then lower the flame.
Gently fry marinated fish pieces for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same oil, add chopped tomatoes and remaining green chilies. Cook until tomatoes soften.
Add the prepared mustard-coconut paste and remaining turmeric powder. Stir and cook the masala on low flame for 3-4 minutes until oil separates.

Step 4 – Simmer the Curry

Gently place fried Hilsa pieces into the pan, add salt, and carefully pour 1 cup of water.
Simmer gently, covering the pan, for 6-8 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 5 – Garnishing and Serving

Turn off the flame and drizzle a teaspoon of mustard oil for aroma.
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve hot with steamed rice 🍚 for an authentic Bengali meal!

📌 Chef’s Tips:

Always fry Hilsa lightly; over-frying reduces its natural softness.
Use freshly ground mustard paste for authentic flavor.
Mustard oil is essential to retain traditional taste and aroma.

📖 Reference and Credit:

Explore the authentic flavors of Hilsa at the famous Sundarban Hilsa festival also known locally as Sundarban ilish utsav, celebrating Bengal’s most cherished fish in its native region.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this iconic Bengali delicacy! 🌶️🐟🍽️

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