Ilish Sorshe (Hilsa in Mustard Gravy)
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4–5 pieces Hilsa (Ilish) fish
- 3 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp black mustard seeds
- 2–3 green chilies
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 4–5 tbsp mustard oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
Step 1: Make the Mustard Paste (Critical Step)
- Soak yellow + black mustard seeds in warm water for 15–20 mins.
-
Grind with:
- 1–2 green chilies
- A pinch of salt
- Very little water
Don’t over-grind. It turns bitter. Don’t use hot water. It ruins the taste. Strain if you want smoother gravy (optional).
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
- Wash lightly (don’t over-wash; you lose flavor).
- Rub with salt + turmeric.
- Keep aside for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cook
- Heat mustard oil until it reaches smoking point (to remove raw smell).
- Lower flame.
- Add mustard paste + ½ cup water.
- Add salt + turmeric (if needed).
- Let it simmer 3–4 minutes (don’t overcook).
- Now gently place the fish pieces.
- Cover and cook on low flame for 6–8 minutes.
- Add slit green chilies.
- Drizzle 1 tsp raw mustard oil on top at the end (authentic flavor).
Final Texture
- Gravy should be medium-thin.
- Oil will slightly float on top.
- Mustard smell should be sharp but not bitter.
Final Texture
Hot steamed rice. Nothing else. No roti. No distractions.
Chicken Butter Masala
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 500 gm boneless chicken
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh cream
- 1 tsp Frospice Red Chilli Powder
- ½ tsp Frospice Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Frospice Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Frospice Jeera Powder
- 1 tsp Frospice Garam Masala Powder
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy
- Heat cooking oil and one tablespoon of butter in a pan.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and lightly golden.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft.
- Allow the mixture to cool and blend into a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the remaining butter in the same pan.
- Pour in the prepared tomato gravy and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Add Frospice Turmeric Powder, Frospice Red Chilli Powder, Frospice Coriander Powder, and Frospice Jeera Powder.
- Mix well and cook until the spices release their rich aroma.
- Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the masala.
- Season with salt and pour in water.
Step 3: Finish the Curry
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in fresh cream and Frospice Garam Masala Powder.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the gravy becomes smooth and creamy.
Final Touch
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a small dollop of butter. The finishing touch of Frospice Garam Masala Powder adds a warm aroma and enhances the overall flavour.
Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with butter naan, tandoori roti, lachha paratha, jeera rice, or steamed basmati rice for a rich and satisfying meal.
Recipe Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes to create a naturally balanced and creamy gravy.
- Cook the Frospice spices on low heat to develop a deeper flavour.
- Add fresh cream at the end and simmer gently for a smooth texture.
- Finish with Frospice Garam Masala Powder just before serving for an authentic restaurant-style aroma.
FAQ
Which Frospice spices are used in Chicken Butter Masala?
This recipe uses Frospice Red Chilli Powder, Frospice Turmeric Powder, Frospice Coriander Powder, Frospice Jeera Powder, and Frospice Garam Masala Powder to create its rich and balanced flavour.
Can I use chicken with bones instead of boneless chicken?
Yes. Bone-in chicken adds extra depth of flavour, although it may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I prepare the gravy ahead of time?
Yes. The gravy can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making the final cooking process quicker and more convenient.
What should I serve with Chicken Butter Masala?
Chicken Butter Masala pairs perfectly with naan, kulcha, butter roti, jeera rice, or steamed basmati rice for a complete and delicious meal.
