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Macher Jhol is a hallmark of Bengali home kitchens, known for its delicate, watery yet flavorful gravy and minimal use of oil. The dish balances the gentle sweetness of potatoes with the tang of tomatoes and fragrance of cumin and turmeric, all enhancing the softly fried fish. Traditionally, river fish like Rohu or Katla is used, but bhetki or any firm white fish fillets also work. The light tempering of spices makes it digestible and comforting, especially served with hot steamed rice. It’s an excellent choice for light lunches or dinners, especially on days when one craves warmth without heaviness. Prep all vegetables and spices before you start; the curry comes together quickly. Pairs best with a simple mound of rice, and can be made ahead for even better flavors.
11 ingredients
Rub the fish pieces with a pinch of turmeric and salt, and let them marinate for 5 minutes.
Heat the mustard oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the marinated fish pieces on both sides until lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes per side. Remove the fish and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining mustard oil if needed. Add cumin seeds and lightly sauté until they begin to splutter and become fragrant.
One serving is 1 bowl (about 300g) · 300 g
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 283 kcal | 12% |
| Protein | 23 g | 42% |
| Total Fat | 15 g | 25% |
| Carbohydrate | 13 g | 4% |
| Fiber (Total) | 2 g | 8% |
| Vitamins & Minerals | ||
| Sodium | 857 mg | 43% |
| Potassium | 361 mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 45 mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2 mg | 11% |
| Zinc | 0.28 mg | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg | 19% |
| Vitamin D | 0.43 µg | 3% |
| Folate (B9) | 11 µg | 4% |
Missing data: These are minimums. 5 of the figures below are missing data for 4 ingredients — Rohu fish; Mustard oil; Salt; Water, tap — so the real totals may be higher.
Before cooking: Vitamins and minerals are counted from the ingredients as listed, before cooking. Cooking lowers some of them, so treat these as an upper bound. Energy, protein, fat and carbohydrate are unaffected.
% Daily Value based on adult male RDA. Your needs may vary.
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Add potato wedges and sauté for a couple of minutes till edges turn pale.
Add chopped tomato and green chili. Sprinkle remaining turmeric, cumin powder, and salt. Cook till tomato softens and oil leaves the sides (about 3 minutes).
Add 200ml water and bring the curry to a gentle boil. Add the fried fish pieces back in. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through and the gravy is flavorful.
Check seasoning; garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.