Ilish Macher Tawk – Tangy Hilsa Fish Curry Recipe

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🐟 Ilish Macher Tawk – Tangy Hilsa Fish Curry Recipe

Ilish Macher Tawk is a classic Bengali delicacy known for its perfect blend of tanginess and authentic regional spices. Prepared with fresh Hilsa fish (Ilish), it holds a special place in Bengali cuisine, especially during the monsoon and summer season, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience.

🛒 Ingredients:

Hilsa fish (Ilish) – 500 grams (cut into thick pieces)
Mustard oil – 4 tablespoons
Panch Phoron (Bengali five-spice mix) – 1 teaspoon
Dry red chilies – 2 pieces
Tamarind pulp – 3 tablespoons (soaked in warm water)
Sugar – 2 tablespoons (adjust according to taste)
Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon
Red chili powder – ½ teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Water – 2 cups
Fresh coriander leaves – for garnishing

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Process:

Step 1: Marinate the Fish

Clean Hilsa fish thoroughly, pat dry, and marinate with turmeric powder and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Fry the Fish

Heat mustard oil in a deep pan or kadhai until smoking hot.
Lightly fry the marinated Hilsa pieces on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tangy Base

In the same oil, add Panch Phoron and dry red chilies. Allow the spices to splutter.
Add diluted tamarind pulp (strain to remove seeds), turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer with Fish

Add water, mix well, and bring it to a gentle boil.
Carefully add the fried Hilsa pieces. Cover and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, allowing flavors to blend perfectly.

Step 5: Final Garnishing

Adjust salt and sugar according to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Serve the delicious and tangy Ilish Macher Tawk hot with steamed white rice. This dish tastes best when enjoyed fresh, offering a perfect balance of flavors ideal for lunch or dinner.

📝 Chef’s Tips:

Always use fresh Hilsa fish for best taste and aroma.
Balance sugar and tamarind carefully to achieve the ideal sweet-and-sour taste.
Using mustard oil enhances the traditional flavor significantly.

📚 Reference and Credit:

Enjoy the authentic taste of Bengali cuisine by celebrating the Sundarban Hilsa festival, locally renowned as Sundarban ilish utsav, where you can experience and taste exquisite Hilsa dishes prepared traditionally in the heart of Sundarban.

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