Authentic Macher Jhol Recipe: A Delicious Bengali Fish Curry

Macher Jhol, a quintessential Bengali fish curry, is a mouthwatering dish that combines the flavors of fish, spices, and vegetables to create a delightful culinary experience. This traditional recipe is loved by Bengalis and seafood enthusiasts alike, and now you can recreate it in the comfort of your own kitchen. Made with fresh fish, fragrant spices, and a tangy tomato base, this curry is a perfect blend of savory and spicy flavors. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey to the eastern state of West Bengal with this authentic Macher Jhol recipe.

Ingredients

• 500 grams fish (rohu or catla)
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Directions

1. Clean and wash the fish thoroughly. Marinate it with turmeric powder and salt. Keep it aside for 15 minutes.
2. Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated fish and fry them until golden brown on both sides. Remove the fish from the pan and keep it aside.
3. In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
6. Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
7. Add water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
8. Gently slide the fried fish pieces into the curry and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
9. Sprinkle sugar and garnish with slit green chilies and fresh coriander leaves. Cover the pan and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Serve hot with steamed rice or chapati. Enjoy the flavors of Bengal!

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