Ilish Tel Bhaja
Hilsa fish marinated in mustard paste, turmeric, and salt, then shallow-fried in mustard oil until the skin crisps — often the simplest and most satisfying way to eat ilish, preserving the fish's natural fat.
Cuisines
Bengali
Best for
Lunch
Dinner
Recipe
Prep: 20 min
Cook: 10 min
Total: 30 min
2-3 servings
Ingredients
| 4 pieces | Ilish (Hilsa) fish |
| 1 teaspoon | turmeric powder |
| 1 teaspoon | red chili powder |
| — | salt to taste |
| 4 tablespoons | mustard oil |
Instructions
- 1 Clean the Ilish fish pieces thoroughly under running water.
- 2 Pat the fish pieces dry with a kitchen towel.
- 3 In a bowl, mix turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- 4 Rub this spice mixture evenly over the fish pieces.
- 5 Let the fish marinate for about 15 minutes.
- 6 Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke lightly.
- 7 Reduce the heat to medium and carefully place the marinated fish pieces into the pan.
- 8 Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- 9 Remove the fish from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Tips
Use fresh Ilish fish for the best flavor. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to prevent sticking.