A Simple Bangali Style Small Fish Curry: Step-by-Step Guide

Bangladesh is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with small fish curries being a staple. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this one-pot small fish curry recipe from Bengali tradition is a delightful and straightforward way to enjoy a delicious meal. Let's dive into the detailed steps to create your own authentic Bangali small fish curry.

Ingredients

250 gm small fresh fish 1 medium-sized onion, julienne chopped 1-2 garlic cloves, minced (optional) 1 tbsp ginger paste 1 tsp turmeric powder 1/2 tsp cumin powder 1/2 tsp coriander powder 3-4 green chillies, optional (adjust to your taste) 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste 2 tbsp oil (or more if needed) 1 tbsp lime juice 1 small potato, cubed 1 small brinjal (eggplant), cubed 1 cup water Mashed tomatoes (or 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes) A pinch of black pepper

Method

Preparation of Fish

Clean the fish thoroughly under running water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Sprinkle salt and lemon juice on the fish to remove any undesirable smell. Let it sit for a few minutes. In a mixing bowl, add the chopped onion, garlic paste, and ginger paste, along with turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, green chillies, salt, and oil. Mix well and marinate the fish for 30 minutes.

Cooking Process

Place the marinated fish in a saucepan and cover tightly with a lid. Cook over low to medium heat until the fish steams in its own juice for about 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, check the fish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir very gently to avoid breaking the fish. Set the fish aside while you prepare the other ingredients. Heat oil in a pan and sauté cumin seeds until fragrant. Add cubed potato and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, then add turmeric powder, salt, and mashed tomatoes. Add the cubed brinjal and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes. Pour in some water and bring to a boil. Cover and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the brinjal is tender. Once the brinjal is cooked, add the prepared fish, along with mashed tomatoes, red chilli powder, cumin powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined and the flavors have melded. Turn off the heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Perfect Bangali Fish Curry

Use fresh, small tropical fish for the best flavor. Add more or less chilli according to your preference for heat. Ensure the saucepan is tightly sealed to allow the fish to steam properly without overcooking. Mash the tomatoes well for even distribution of flavors.

Enjoy your authentic Bangali small fish curry, a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for family gatherings or casual meals. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Bangladesh.

Conclusion

This simple yet delightful recipe for Bangali small fish curry is a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Bengali cuisine. Whether you're cooking for loved ones or surprised yourself with a gourmet meal, follow these straightforward steps to create a dish that will surely impress. Happy cooking!