Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Ilish, often called hilsa, is a jewel of the culinary world, bursting with flavor and charm. Get ready to explore two exquisite recipes that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also bring smiles to everyone at your table!
Ilish Bhapa (Steamed Hilsa)


Bhapa Ilish Shorshe bhata diye | Ilish Bhaape | Steamed Hilsa from Scratching Canvas
Ingredients: Poppy seed, ilish, coconut, yogurt, green chili Total Time: 30 min.

Shorshe Maach / Tilapia in Mustard Sauce from Playful Cooking
Ingredients: Hilsa fish fillets, yogurt, green chilies, mustard oil, yellow mustard seeds Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.

Doi Ilish Bhapa/Steamed Hilsa in Mustard-Yogurt Gravy from Not Out of the Box
Ingredients: Fish, mustard paste, green chilies, mustard oil Total Time: 35 min.
Imagine rich, tender fish infused with the warmth of spices and the subtle sweetness of mustard. Ilish Bhapa is a classic Bengali dish that transforms the humble hilsa into a culinary masterpiece through steaming. This cooking method retains the fish’s natural oils and flavors, ensuring every bite is a delightful explosion of taste.
What makes Ilish Bhapa so special is the combination of mustard paste and coconut, which creates a creamy, zesty sauce that clings to the fish beautifully. The gentle steaming not only makes the fish flaky but also allows the spices to blend harmoniously. This dish is often served with plain rice, making it a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Related Videos
Ilish Macher Jhol (Hilsa Curry)


Ilish Begun er Tel Jhol | Hilsa fish curry Bengali style from Gastronomic BONG
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Eggplant, hilsa, mustard oil, fish steaks, kalo jeera Total Time: 25 min.

Ilish Beguner Jhol (Hilsa Fish and Eggplant Curry) from Debjanir Rannaghar
Ingredients: Hilsa fish, eggplant, mustard oil, garlic, onion seed Total Time: 25 min.

Kumro diye Ilish Macher Jhol (Hilsa fish curry with Pumpkin) from Debjanir Rannaghar
Ingredients: Hilsa fish, pumpkin, tamarind paste, green chilies, mustard oil Total Time: 25 min.
Take a moment to picture a vibrant curry bubbling away, filled with the essence of hilsa and an array of spices. Ilish Macher Jhol is a delightful Bengali fish curry that captures the heart of traditional cooking with its aromatic broth and tender fish pieces. It’s a dish that brings families together, making it a staple at festive gatherings and special occasions.
The magic of Ilish Macher Jhol lies in its simplicity. With ingredients like turmeric, coriander, and a splash of mustard oil, this curry showcases the hilsa’s natural flavor without overpowering it. Each spoonful is a dance of spices and freshness, often paired with steaming hot rice, creating a meal that is both comforting and utterly delicious.