Khoira fish, also called the Indian oil sardine, belongs to the family of Ray finned fish. From the commercial perspective, it is one of the two most important fishes in India.
This fish is mainly popular in West Bengal and Bangladesh. It resembles its appearance with Hilsa, the most prized fish for the Bongs.
Uses of Khoira Fish in Bengali and Indian Cooking
Khoira is one of the most popular street market fish in our country. The reasonable price of the fish has endeared it to all, irrespective of their income slab. Bengalis cook some lovely dishes with this fish.
Khoira fishes have several tiny bones. Hence, this fish is often served fried with a bowl of steamed rice and boiled pink lentils.
The tiny bones feel crispy and crunchy and hence, fried Khoira is always favoured by those who avoid eating this fish in gravy.
Khoira macher jhol is a popular preparation. It is neither light nor tight gravy. Fried Khoira dishes are cooked with nigella/onion seeds in tomato gravy.
Khoira macher gravy is another mouth-watering recipe from the Bongs’ repertoire. Fried fishes are slow cooked in pungent mustard paste gravy with a few spices. Green chillies contribute to hotness. Like other fish dishes, it is best relished with plain steamed rice.
Khoira macher jhal is a traditional Bengali delicacy. The fishes are fried and cooked in mustard oil, flavoured with some common spices and flavouring agents. No water is used in cooking.
What is the Best Way to Cook Khoira Fish?
Preparation is the key to great taste. Marinate the fishes with turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt and mustard oil.
Mustard oil is used to prevent splattering when frying. If you are preparing gravy, slow cooking is the best way for the most delicious result.
Questions & Answers:
How Can You Tell It is a Khoira Fish?
Khoira fish looks, smells and tastes like hilsa. It is often called a small version of hilsa.
Is Khoira Fish Tasty?
Yes, Khoira fish is tasty. The taste is similar to Hilsa fish.
How Long Does Khoira Fish Take to Cook?
It takes 20-30 minutes to cook Khoira fish.
How Do You Know When Khoira Fish is Cooked?
The Khoira fish will change its colour. If you are still not sure, use a fork to check if the fish is properly done.
What is Khoira Fish Called in English?
It is called Indian oil sardine in English.
