Take 700 grams of Hilsa fish (Ilish mach, cut into round pieces) wash them nicely and put ½ tsp of salt and ½ tsp of turmeric powder on them. Coat them nicely and keep aside for about 10 minutes.

Now, take 3 tsp of yellow mustard seeds and 1 tsp of black mustard seeds in a small bowl. Wash them and soak them in water for 5 minutes or so.

Transfer the soaked mustard seeds to a mixie jar along with 2 tsp of poppy seeds, 3 pieces of whole green chilies, ½ tsp of salt, little bit of water and make a fine paste.

Transfer the masala paste to a frying pan and add ¼ tsp of salt, ¼ tsp of turmeric powder, and 5 tbsp of mustard oil to it. Mix nicely.

Now, put the marinated fish pieces and coat each nicely on both sides with your hand with the masala paste.

Wash the mixie jar with a cup of water and pour it to the fish pieces so the pieces submerge. Cover the pan with a lid and then switch on the flame of the gas stove. Let it cook on a very low flame for about 25 minutes, flipping each piece carefully after 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, put in 6 pieces of whole green chilies. Cover the pan and let it cook for the remaining of 25 minutes. Switch off the flame of the gas stove when done and let it rest for 10 minutes for the oil to separate. Transfer it to a plate.

Your tasty and spicy Ilish bhapa is ready to enjoy with steamed rice.