1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, take the washed pabda and add 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 2 tablespoons mustard oil. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Kadhai: Heat 4-5 tablespoons of mustard oil in a kadhai (wok).
3. Fry the Fish: If you wish to prevent splattering, add a tablespoon of flour to the fish before frying. Once the oil is hot and smoking, carefully add the marinated fish to the kadhai. Fry lightly for a few minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain its delicate taste and texture.
4. Spice it Up: Add 2 more tablespoons of mustard oil to the kadhai. Toss in 1 teaspoon of onion seeds and 4 sliced green chilies. Wait until the onion seeds start to crackle, releasing their aromatic essence.
5. Make the Mustard Sauce Mix: In a separate bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of mustard sauce with 4 tablespoons of water. Mix well until you achieve a smooth consistency.
6. Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the kadhai and sauté until they become soft and mushy.
7. Combine with Mustard Sauce: Pour the mustard sauce mixture into the kadhai and let it come to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes.
8. Create the Gravy: Add additional water, salt to taste, and 1 teaspoon turmeric. Allow the gravy to come to a boil, stirring occasionally.
9. Add the Fish: Gently place the fried fish into the kadhai and cover it. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
10. Serve Hot: Turn off the heat and, if you have some, sprinkle chopped coriander on top. Serve your Pabda Kashundi hot with steamed rice, and enjoy the warmth of a home-cooked Bengali meal.
Tips:
• Prevent Splattering: Since pabda doesn’t have scales, add a tablespoon of flour to the fish before frying to prevent splattering.
• Avoid Overcooking: Fry the fish lightly and avoid overcooking to maintain its delicate taste and texture.
With each bite of Pabda Kashundi, you’ll savor the flavors of Bengal, reminding you that a great fish recipe truly begins with the quest for fresh ingredients. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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