How to Prepare Dry Fish Curry
Dry fish curry, also known as Meen Macher Jhaal or Mackerel Curry, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is popular in many coastal regions around the world. This dish is made using dried fish, which is then soaked, cooked, and seasoned to create a rich and tangy curry. If you’re looking to prepare this delicious meal at home, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare dry fish curry.
Ingredients
– 1 lb dried mackerel (or any other type of dried fish)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 green chili, slit
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon amchur powder (dry mango powder)
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 2-3 curry leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
Instructions
1. Begin by soaking the dried mackerel in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will help to rehydrate the fish and make it easier to cook.
2. After soaking, remove the scales and bones from the fish. Cut the fish into small pieces and set aside.
3. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Allow the seeds to splutter and the asafoetida to dissolve.
4. Add the chopped onions, green chili, and curry leaves to the pot. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
5. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
7. Sprinkle the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, fenugreek powder, and amchur powder over the tomatoes. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
8. Add the cooked fish pieces to the pot. Pour in the water used for soaking the fish and bring the mixture to a boil.
9. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the oil starts to separate from the curry.
10. Add salt to taste and mix well. Sprinkle the garam masala over the curry and cook for another 2 minutes.
11. Your dry fish curry is now ready to be served. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and enjoy it with steamed rice or roti.
Now that you know how to prepare dry fish curry, you can enjoy this delicious and traditional dish in the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!
