Hilsa Fish Curry

Hilsa Fish Curry
Bangladesh
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 4-6 pieces of Hilsa fish (or substitute with a similar fish like mackerel)
  • 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard seeds (optional)
  • 1 cup water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Fish

Rinse the fish pieces and pat them dry. Rub them with a pinch of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Cook the Onions and Spices

In a large pan, heat the mustard oil over medium heat until it starts to smoke slightly.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and slit green chilies. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

Add the Spices

Stir in the remaining ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili powder, and ground mustard seeds (if using). Cook for another minute.

Add Water and Simmer

Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add salt to taste.

Cook the Fish

Gently add the fish pieces to the pan. Cover and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Be careful not to stir too much to avoid breaking the fish pieces.

Serve

Transfer the Hilsa Fish Curry to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Enjoy your meal!