Bathua Maach

Bathua Maach

Bathua Maach

Chenopodium greens (bathua) cooked with small freshwater fish — a winter Mithila classic that combines the mineral richness of wild greens with the umami depth of river fish.

Cuisines

Maithili

Best for

Lunch Dinner

Build a full meal around Bathua Maach

Get a matched combo of sides and accents

Recipe

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Total: 45 min 2-3 servings

Ingredients

Fish 250 grams Fish , firm white fillets
Bathua Leaf 1 bunch Bathua Leaf
mustard oil 2 tablespoons Mustard oil
turmeric powder 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
red chili powder 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
Cumin 1 teaspoon Cumin , seeds
coriander powder 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
Green Chili 2 pieces Green Chili , slit
ginger-garlic paste 1 teaspoon Ginger-garlic paste
water 1 cup Water
salt Salt , to taste

Instructions

  1. 1 Clean and wash the fish pieces thoroughly.
  2. 2 Marinate the fish with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  3. 3 Wash the bathua leaves thoroughly and chop them finely.
  4. 4 Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke, then reduce the heat.
  5. 5 Fry the marinated fish pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
  6. 6 In the same oil, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  7. 7 Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sauté until the raw smell disappears.
  8. 8 Add chopped bathua leaves and cook until they wilt.
  9. 9 Add coriander powder, salt, and mix well.
  10. 10 Pour in water and bring it to a boil.
  11. 11 Gently add the fried fish pieces into the gravy.
  12. 12 Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the flavors meld.
  13. 13 Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips

For a more authentic flavor, use mustard oil and fresh bathua leaves.