Posto Bata Macher Jhol: Authentic Bengali Fish Curry with Poppy Seed Paste
40 minutes
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About Posto Bata Macher Jhol: Authentic Bengali Fish Curry with Poppy Seed Paste
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of Posto Bata Macher Jhol, a beloved Bengali fish curry. This heirloom recipe features tender fish simmered in a luscious sauce of poppy seeds, onions, and tomatoes, tempered with fragrant nigella seeds and green chilies. The subtle yet complex flavors will transport you to the heart of Bengal.This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. The unique combination of aromatic spices and creamy poppy seed paste creates a harmonious taste that's both satisfying and unforgettable. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor in each spoonful!Learn how to make this classic Bengali curry at home with our easy-to-follow recipe. It's a delightful culinary experience you won't want to miss.
Recipe Time & More
Prep10 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Poppy Seed Paste
- 1/4 cup Poppy Seeds
- 4 Chilies adjust to your spice preference, green
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Water or as needed for a smooth paste
For Marinating the Fish
- 6 Fish Fillets firm white fish like cod, medium-sized, or basa, tilapia
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder haldi
- 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
- 2 tbsp Mustard Oil or other cooking oil
For the Curry
- 3 tbsp Mustard Oil or other cooking oil
- 1/3 tsp Nigella Seeds kalonji
- 1/2 medium Onion finely chopped
- 1 medium Tomato finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp Chili Powder adjust to taste, red
- 2 Chilies green, slit vertically
- 1 tbsp Coriander finely chopped, for garnish
- 1 cup Water as needed for desired consistency, or more
Instructions
Prepare the Poppy Seed Paste
- Grind poppy seeds coarsely with green chilies, a pinch of salt, and water until smooth.
Marinate the Fish
- Wash and pat dry the fish fillets. Marinate with turmeric powder, salt, and mustard oil for 10 minutes.
Shallow Fry the Fish
- Heat mustard oil in a pan. Fry the fish until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pan, add nigella seeds. Once they crackle, add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent.
Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, remaining turmeric powder, red chili powder, and green chilies. Cook until tomatoes soften.
Combine with Poppy Seed Paste
- Stir in the poppy seed paste and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
Simmer the Curry
- Add water to reach desired consistency. Bring to a boil, then gently add the fried fish. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot with rice.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Best Posto Bata Macher Jhol
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of mustard oil and vegetable oil for frying.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference. Start with fewer and add more as needed.
- Don't overcook the fish; it should be tender and flaky. Overcooking will make it dry.
- For a smoother paste, soak the poppy seeds in warm water for 15-20 minutes before grinding.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 233kcalCarbohydrates: 4gFat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 1710mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
4 Comments
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Absolutely fantastic! Thanks for the recipe.
This looks so tasty! Thank you.
Such a delicious dish! Thank you.
What a flavorful dish! Thanks for sharing.