Bihari Fish Curry with Mustard and Poppy Seeds
A robust and pungent Bihari delicacy featuring tender fish fillets simmered in a sharp, aromatic gravy made from ground mustard seeds, poppy seeds, and vibrant spices. This rustic preparation offers a deeply comforting heat that pairs exceptionally well with steaming hot rice.
50min
Total Time
4
Servings
Bihari
Cuisine
Recipe
1
Soak the mustard seeds and poppy seeds in warm water for about 20 minutes.
2
Grind the soaked seeds along with onion, garlic, and ginger into a smooth paste.
3
Marinate the fish pieces with a pinch of turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
4
Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan until smoking hot, then lightly pan-fry the fish pieces until golden. Remove and set aside.
5
In the same remaining oil, add fenugreek seeds and let them sputter.
6
Add the ground mustard-onion paste and sauté well over medium heat until the oil separates from the masala.
7
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt, stirring continuously for 2 minutes.
8
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy and blend into the masala.
9
Pour in 1.5 cups of water and bring the gravy to a gentle boil.
10
Carefully slide in the fried fish pieces, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors infuse.
11
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.
Ingredients
500g firm white fish fillets, cleaned and cut into pieces
2 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
1 tbsp poppy seeds
1 medium onion, roughly chopped
5-6 cloves of garlic
1-inch piece of ginger
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds (methi)
3 tbsp mustard oil
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
*This AI-generated recipe may contain inaccuracies.