Assamese Fish Fried Rice Recipe
Description:
Assamese Fish Fried Rice is a delightful and aromatic rice dish that stands apart from the usual Chinese fried rice. Originating from the culturally rich state of Assam, this fried rice is infused with traditional Indian spices and flavors. Unlike its Chinese counterpart, which is stir-fried with soy sauce and vegetables, this version features a unique blend of spices, fresh fish, and seasonal vegetables, making it a wholesome and savory dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Cuisine: Assamese
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (cooked) | 2 cups |
| Fish (cut into half) | 1 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Dry coconut (kopra) | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Green peas (Matar) | ½ cup |
| Carrot (Gajjar, chopped) | 1 |
| Bay leaf (Tej patta) | 1 |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4-5 people
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
- Start by washing the fish thoroughly and cutting it into 1-inch pieces.
- In a small bowl, combine the coriander powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and chopped ginger to form a spice mix. Set aside.
-
Cook the Fish:
- Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the prepared spice mix to the hot oil and sauté it until the raw smell dissipates. Be sure not to burn the spices.
- Gently place the fish pieces into the pan and stir carefully to avoid breaking the fish.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the fish cook in its own steam for about 5 minutes on a low flame.
- Once cooked, remove the fish carefully from the pan and place it in a separate plate or bowl. Set it aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the bay leaf and chopped onions. Sauté until the onions turn soft and translucent.
- Add the desiccated coconut (kopra) to the pan and fry it until the raw smell vanishes and the coconut turns slightly golden.
-
Add Vegetables and Rice:
- Add the chopped carrot and green peas into the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften a little.
- Next, add the cooked Basmati rice to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the rice absorb the flavors of the spices and vegetables.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Gently fold the fried fish chunks into the rice mixture. Give it a quick stir to combine, ensuring the fish doesn’t break apart.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the rice for a tangy kick. Stir to mix.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Assamese Fish Fried Rice with freshly chopped spring onion greens or coriander leaves for a fresh finish.
- Serve the rice hot as a stand-alone meal or pair it with a cool, creamy Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita to complement the flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Assamese Fish Fried Rice:
- Fish: For best results, use fresh fish such as Rohu, Catla, or any firm white fish. Avoid oily fish, as it may overpower the dish.
- Rice: Use well-cooked, long-grain Basmati rice. If possible, use leftover rice, as it prevents the rice from getting mushy.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you like it spicier, you can add a pinch of red chili powder or green chilies.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like beans or peas to make it even more nutritious.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this fried rice with a side of crispy fried fish or a simple cucumber salad for a fulfilling meal.
This Assamese Fish Fried Rice is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that brings together the traditional tastes of Assam. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even for a special occasion when you want to serve something unique and delicious. The combination of fish, rice, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying meal that will surely leave everyone craving more!
