India > Bengalis > Fish

Bhapa Ilish Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs of Ilish (Hilsa) fish
- 2 tablespoons of mustard oil
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons of freshly grated garlic
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped green chilies
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped mint
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- A large shallow pan
- A lid for the pan

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Clean and wash the Ilish fish and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large shallow pan, heat the mustard oil over medium heat.
3. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the freshly grated ginger, garlic, green chilies, cilantro, mint, and onion and stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the Ilish fish and stir to coat with the spices.
6. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and salt to taste.
8. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 4-6 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 220
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 22 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Mustard oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Red chili powder can be substituted with paprika or cayenne pepper.
- Garam masala can be substituted with curry powder.

Variations:
- The Ilish fish can be substituted with any other type of fish.
- The spices can be adjusted to taste.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to pat the Ilish fish dry before adding it to the pan.
- Use freshly grated ginger, garlic, and green chilies for the best flavor.
- Cook the fish on medium heat for the best results.

Storage Instructions:
Bhapa Ilish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Bhapa Ilish can be reheated in a pan over medium heat for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Bhapa Ilish can be served with steamed rice and a side of vegetables.

Garnishes:
Bhapa Ilish can be garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Pairings:
Bhapa Ilish pairs well with steamed rice, naan, or chapati.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Bhapa Ilish can be served with a side of vegetables, such as sautéed spinach or roasted potatoes.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the Ilish fish is overcooked, it will become dry and tough.
- If the spices are too spicy, add more lemon juice to balance out the flavors.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the Ilish fish thoroughly before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Food History:
Bhapa Ilish is a traditional Bengali dish that is typically served during special occasions. It is made with Ilish fish, which is a popular fish in Bengali cuisine.

Flavor Profiles:
Bhapa Ilish has a savory and spicy flavor with a hint of tanginess from the lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions:
Bhapa Ilish can be served as a main course with steamed rice and a side of vegetables.

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Region: Bangladeshi

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Tangy, Aromatic, Fishy