How do you cook Bengali Fish Curry?

Bengali Fish Curry: A Culinary Adventure

Bengali Fish Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish that truly captures the essence of Bengali cuisine. It's known for its rich, creamy gravy and the unique flavor profile that comes from a blend of spices and herbs.

Here's a step-by-step guide to prepare this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

* Fish: 1 lb (approx. 450g) firm white fish (Rohu, Katla, or Basa are common choices), cut into 2-inch pieces.

* Onion: 1 large, sliced

* Tomato: 2 medium, chopped

* Ginger-Garlic paste: 1 tablespoon

* Green chili: 2-3, finely chopped

* Mustard oil: 2 tablespoons

* Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon

* Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

* Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon

* Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon

* Fenugreek seeds: 1/2 teaspoon

* Bay leaf: 1

* Dried red chili: 2-3

* Poppy seeds: 1 tablespoon

* Yogurt: 1/2 cup, beaten

* Salt: to taste

* Fresh cilantro leaves: for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the fish: Marinate the fish pieces with turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and a little bit of ginger-garlic paste. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the gravy: Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Add bay leaf, dried red chili, and fenugreek seeds. Let them splutter.

3. Add aromatics: Add onion and green chili. Sauté until the onion turns translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.

4. Add spices: Add cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for a minute, stirring continuously.

5. Add tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.

6. Add poppy seed paste: In a separate pan, dry roast poppy seeds until fragrant. Grind them to a fine paste with a little water. Add this paste to the pan and mix well.

7. Add yogurt: Slowly add the beaten yogurt and cook until it thickens slightly.

8. Add fish: Add the marinated fish pieces to the pan. Gently stir and cover the pan. Let it cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.

9. Finish and serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Tips and variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.

* Creamy goodness: Add a spoonful of cream to the gravy for a richer texture.

* Different fish: Try using other firm white fish like cod, tilapia, or haddock.

* Vegetarian option: You can skip the fish and create a delicious vegetable curry with the same ingredients.

* Adjust spice levels: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference.

Enjoy this delicious Bengali Fish Curry!