There’s something magical about the way Bengali cuisine embraces the flavors of the sea. Each dish tells a story, weaving together spices and heritage to create a culinary adventure. If you’re ready to explore some delightful fish recipes that are sure to impress anyone at your table, keep reading!
Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in Mustard Sauce)
Imagine the rich, buttery taste of Hilsa fish enveloped in a creamy mustard sauce that dances on your palate. Shorshe Ilish is a beloved classic in Bengali households, featuring fresh Hilsa fillets marinated with mustard paste, turmeric, and green chilies. The secret? The mustard sauce is made with both black and white mustard seeds, giving it a unique kick that perfectly complements the fish.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration. Often served with steaming hot rice, every bite feels like a warm hug from home. It’s popular during the monsoon season, as families gather to savor this delicacy while listening to the rhythm of raindrops falling outside.
Chingri Malai Curry (Prawn Coconut Curry)

Chingri Malai Curry – Bengali Coconut Shrimp Curry – Keto from Easy Cooking with Molly
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 24 мин
If you love seafood, you can’t miss out on Chingri Malai Curry. This dish combines juicy prawns with a luscious coconut milk base, infused with spices like ginger, garlic, and a hint of green chili that makes your taste buds sing. The coconut milk brings a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible, creating a harmony of flavors that transports you to a tropical paradise.
This curry is often served on special occasions, making it a favorite for festive gatherings. The aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the dining table to enjoy a moment of togetherness. Pair it with fluffy rice, and you’ll find yourself in culinary bliss!
Bhapa Ilish (Steamed Hilsa)

Bhapa Ilish Shorshe bhata diye | Ilish Bhaape | Steamed Hilsa from Scratching Canvas
Ingredients: 30 мин
Bhapa Ilish is a dish that takes simplicity to a whole new level. Steamed Hilsa fish is seasoned with mustard paste, green chilies, and a drizzle of mustard oil, then wrapped in banana leaves for that perfect infusion of flavor. The steaming process keeps the fish moist and tender, allowing the spices to meld together beautifully.
<pWhat makes this dish truly special is its healthiness and ease of preparation. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends. Plus, the banana leaf wrapping adds a lovely aroma that enhances the overall experience, making it a must-try for any fish lover!
Maachher Jhol (Fish Curry)

Bengali Macher Jhol Fish Curry from Rupal Bhatikar
Ingredients: White fish steaks, potato, ginger, cinnamon, nigella seeds

Macher Jhol Aloo Begun Diye from Playful Cooking
Ingredients: Rohu fish, potato, nigella seeds, green chilies, mustard oil Total Time: 40 min.

Bengali Macher Jhol from Sinfully Spicy
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sea bass, tomato, nigella seeds, lime juice, mustard oil Total Time: 40 min.
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Maachher Jhol to comfort your soul. This Bengali fish curry is light yet flavorful, made with pieces of fish simmered in a broth of tomatoes, potatoes, and a blend of spices like cumin and coriander. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, creating a dish that feels both homey and heartwarming.
This recipe is popular for its versatility; you can use different types of fish, depending on what’s available. Served with rice, it’s a staple in many Bengali homes, cherished for its simplicity and the way it brings people together around the dinner table. Each spoonful is a reminder of the love and care that goes into home-cooked meals.
Fish Paturi (Fish Wrapped in Spices)

Bengali Bhetki Macher Paturi Recipe (Barramundi Fish Wrapped in Banana Leaf) from Archana's Kitchen
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 40 min
Fish Paturi is a delightful dish that showcases the art of wrapping flavors. It features fish marinated in a spicy paste of mustard, coconut, and green chilies, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. The result is a dish bursting with flavor, with each bite revealing the tender, flaky fish infused with the aromatic spices.
What makes Fish Paturi truly special is the unique cooking method, which not only enhances the taste but also presents beautifully. It’s often served at parties and special occasions, making it a highlight on any menu. The banana leaf wrapping adds an authentic touch, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!