Fish and Festivals: A Culinary Celebration in Kolkata

Kolkata, the vibrant city of joy, celebrates festivals with a symphony of flavors, especially those featuring fish. These celebrations, under the theme of Fish and Festivals, are not just about food; they are a cultural expression deeply rooted in Bengali tradition. Let’s explore the special fish dishes that grace tables during these festive moments.

The Essence of Fish and Festivals in Kolkata

In Kolkata, the bond between fish and festivals runs deep, enriching culinary traditions and bringing communities together. Celebrated during major festivals like Durga Puja and Poila Boishakh, fish dishes like Hilsa and Chingri Malai Curry showcase the region’s love for its aquatic treasures. These celebrations not only highlight the flavors of fish but also reflect the cultural significance of sharing meals with family and friends, making fish an integral part of Kolkata’s festive identity.

Durga Puja Delights: Hilsa Reigns Supreme

Durga Puja, the most celebrated festival in Kolkata, features Hilsa as the star ingredient. The prised fish shines in dishes like Shorshe Ilish and Ilish Paturi.

Shorshe Ilish

Hilsa cooked in a mustard gravy with a fiery punch.

Ingredients:

• Hilsa fish
• Mustard paste
• Turmeric
• Green chilies
• Mustard oil

Method:

1. Marinate the fish with turmeric and salt.
2. Prepare a mustard paste with mustard seeds, green chilies, and water.
3. Heat mustard oil in a pan and cook the paste until the oil separates.
4. Add the hilsa pieces and cook on low heat until tender.

Ilish Paturi

Hilsa marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection.

Ingredients:

• Hilsa fish
• Mustard paste
• Green chilies
• Turmeric
• Grated coconut

Method:

1. Marinate the fish with mustard paste, turmeric, and salt.
2. Wrap the fish in banana leaves.
3. Steam or grill until fragrant.

Fish and Festivals: Savoring Chingri Malai Curry on Poila Boishakh

Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, calls for lavish meals. Chingri Malai Curry, a prawn delicacy cooked in coconut milk, is a festive highlight.

Ingredients

• Large prawns
• Coconut milk
• Onion paste
• Ginger-garlic paste
• Spices

Method

1. Marinate the prawns with turmeric and salt.
2. Sauté onion and ginger-garlic paste in oil until golden brown.
3. Add coconut milk and spices, and bring to a boil.
4. Add the prawns and simmer until cooked through.

Vishwakarma Puja: Machher Khichuri

Vishwakarma Puja, dedicated to the divine architect, features a grand community feast. Machher Khichuri, a fragrant rice dish cooked with fish, vegetables, and spices, symbolises abundance and community.

Ingredients

• Rohu fish
• Rice
• Lentils
• Mixed vegetables
• Spices

Method

1. Marinate the fish with turmeric and salt.
2. Cook rice and lentils together with spices.
3. Sauté mixed vegetables and add them to the rice and lentil mixture.
4. Add the marinated fish pieces and simmer until the fish is tender.

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