Ilish Macher Matha Jhol โ€“ Hilsa Fish Head Curry

๐Ÿ› Ilish Macher Matha Jhol โ€“ Hilsa Fish Head Curry ๐ŸŸ๐Ÿ”ฅ

 

A Bengali delicacy, Ilish Macher Matha Jhol is a light yet flavorful curry made with Hilsa fish head (Ilish Macher Matha), potatoes, and traditional Bengali spices. This dish is a must-try for those who love the rich, distinct flavors of Hilsa!


๐Ÿ›’ Ingredients

For Frying the Hilsa Head:

โœ” Hilsa Fish Head (Ilish Macher Matha) โ€“ 1 (cut into pieces)
โœ” Turmeric Powder โ€“ ยฝ tsp
โœ” Salt โ€“ ยฝ tsp
โœ” Mustard Oil โ€“ 3 tbsp

For the Curry:

โœ” Potatoes (cubed) โ€“ 1 large
โœ” Brinjal (optional, cut into pieces) โ€“ ยฝ cup
โœ” Onion (sliced thinly) โ€“ 1 medium
โœ” Tomato (chopped) โ€“ 1 small
โœ” Green Chilies (slit) โ€“ 2-3
โœ” Ginger Paste โ€“ 1 tsp
โœ” Turmeric Powder โ€“ ยฝ tsp
โœ” Red Chili Powder โ€“ 1 tsp
โœ” Cumin Powder โ€“ 1 tsp
โœ” Salt โ€“ To taste
โœ” Sugar โ€“ ยฝ tsp (optional)
โœ” Mustard Oil โ€“ 2 tbsp
โœ” Water โ€“ 1 cup
โœ” Fresh Coriander Leaves โ€“ For garnish


๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿณ Cooking Process

1๏ธโƒฃ Frying the Hilsa Head

1๏ธโƒฃ Wash the Hilsa Fish Head and pat it dry.
2๏ธโƒฃ Marinate with turmeric and salt and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3๏ธโƒฃ Heat 3 tbsp mustard oil in a pan until it smokes slightly.
4๏ธโƒฃ Fry the Hilsa head pieces until golden brown and crispy.
5๏ธโƒฃ Remove from the pan and set aside.

2๏ธโƒฃ Preparing the Curry Base

1๏ธโƒฃ In the same oil, add sliced onions and sautรฉ until golden.
2๏ธโƒฃ Add ginger paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3๏ธโƒฃ Stir in tomatoes, cooking until they soften and release oil.
4๏ธโƒฃ Add turmeric, red chili, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
5๏ธโƒฃ Toss in potatoes and brinjal and sautรฉ for a few minutes.

3๏ธโƒฃ Simmering the Curry

1๏ธโƒฃ Pour 1 cup of water into the pan and bring it to a boil.
2๏ธโƒฃ Add the fried Hilsa head and cook for 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3๏ธโƒฃ Add slit green chilies for extra spice.
4๏ธโƒฃ Check seasoning, add a little sugar if needed.
5๏ธโƒฃ Simmer for 2 more minutes, then turn off the heat.


๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Serving Suggestions

โœ… Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
โœ… Serve hot with steamed rice for an authentic Bengali experience! ๐Ÿš๐Ÿ”ฅ


๐Ÿ“Œ Footnote:

This dish is often enjoyed during the Sundarban Hilsa Festival, also known as Sundarban Ilish Utsav, where food lovers indulge in a variety of Hilsa delicacies in the heart of the Sundarbans!

Enjoy your meal! ๐Ÿด๐Ÿ˜‹

Updated: March 19, 2025 — 5:45 am

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