Hilsa Tail Mash Recipe

Hilsa Tail Mash (Ilisher Lej Bharta) Recipe

Hilsa tail mash, a popular Bangladeshi delicacy, is often prepared using steamed or boiled hilsa tails. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for enjoying the rich taste of hilsa without having to visit Mawa Ghat every time! Here’s how you can make this delightful dish at home:

Ingredients:

Hilsa tails: 2-3 pieces
Onion: 1, finely chopped
Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
Green chilies: 2-3, finely chopped
Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
Salt: To taste
Mustard oil: 2 tbsp
Coriander leaves: For garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Hilsa Tails
- Wash the hilsa tails thoroughly.
- Marinate them with turmeric powder and salt. Let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
Steam or Boil
- Place the marinated hilsa tails in a steamer and steam for 10-15 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can boil them in a small amount of water.
Cook the Masala
- Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke lightly.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and green chilies, frying for another minute.
Mash and Mix
- Once the steamed hilsa tails cool down, gently remove the bones and mash the flesh with a spoon or by hand.
- Add the mashed hilsa to the pan and mix well with the sautéed ingredients.
- Adjust salt as needed and mix thoroughly.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the bharta to a serving dish.
- Drizzle with a little mustard oil and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips and Variations:

Add coconut: For a unique twist, mix in some grated coconut.
Use lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor.
Make it spicier: Increase the number of green chilies or add red chili powder for a bolder kick.