Sorshe Ilish Recipe – Authentic Bangali Hilsa Fish in Mustard Sauce

Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in Mustard Gravy)

If you’re a Bengali food lover, nothing beats the classic Sorshe Ilish (Hilsa in Mustard Gravy). It’s not just a dish — it’s an emotion that connects every Bengali with their roots. This golden fish, cooked in rich mustard sauce and coconut milk, brings out the perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors. Today, let’s recreate this traditional recipe using fresh ingredients available right here at AA Halal Foods Japan.

🧂 Ingredients

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation

1️⃣ Make the Mustard Paste
Soak black and yellow mustard seeds in water for 30 minutes. Rinse, then grind them into a smooth paste with a pinch of salt and little water. This is the heart of authentic Sorshe Ilish flavor.

2️⃣ Marinate the Fish
Rub the Hilsa pieces with turmeric powder, salt, and a spoonful of mustard oil. Rest for 10 minutes to lock in the flavors.

3️⃣ Temper the Oil
In a pan, heat 2 tbsp mustard oil until it smokes (this removes bitterness). Lower the heat, then add nigella seeds and slitted green chillies. Sauté until fragrant.

4️⃣ Prepare the Masala Base
Mix turmeric powder and red chilli powder with a little water. Add this to the pan and sauté for 2–3 minutes on medium flame until the oil starts separating from the masala.

5️⃣ Cook the Fish
Add 2 cups of water, let it boil, and carefully place the marinated Hilsa pieces. Cover and cook each side for about 10 minutes on low-medium heat. Handle gently — Hilsa breaks easily.

6️⃣ Add Mustard Paste & Coconut Milk
Pour in the mustard paste and cook for 10–12 minutes on low heat. Then add coconut milk for a creamy, rich gravy. Add hot water if it thickens too much.

7️⃣ Final Touch
Adjust salt and sugar to balance the taste. Finally, drizzle a spoonful of raw mustard oil and drop in a few whole green chillies.
Turn off the flame and let it rest covered for 10–15 minutes — this step enhances the aroma and flavor.

🍚 Serving Suggestion

Serve this delicious Shorshe Ilish hot with steamed white rice. The soft fish and mustard-rich gravy make it an unforgettable traditional Bengali meal.
✨ Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh green chillies or drizzle a few drops of mustard oil before serving for extra punch.

💡 Cooking Tips

✅ Always use fresh Hilsa for the best taste.
✅ Mustard oil is essential — it brings out the traditional flavor.
✅ Handle the fish carefully — Hilsa is soft and delicate.
✅ For extra creaminess, add more coconut milk or a bit of grated coconut.

🏡 Conclusion

This Sorshe Ilish Recipe brings Bengal’s most beloved fish dish straight to your kitchen in Japan 🇯🇵. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festival feast, this recipe will make your table shine with tradition and taste.
Get your Hilsa fish, mustard oil, and all authentic Bengali ingredients at AA Halal Foods Japan 🛒.