Lagan Ki Machli Recipe – Delicious Pomfret Curry
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description:
Lagan Ki Machli is a traditional Indian fish curry made with fresh, tender pomfret. This dish combines aromatic spices and tangy yogurt to create a rich, flavorful gravy that complements the delicate taste of the fish. Perfectly spiced with a balance of heat, savory flavors, and a touch of citrus, this curry is ideal for those who enjoy a delightful fish-based main course with a deep, comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients
For Marinating the Pomfret
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pomfret Fish | 2 whole pomfret fish |
| Ginger (paste) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (paste) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
For the Lagan Ki Machli Gravy
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Star Anise | 1 whole |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1/2 inch |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 whole |
| Onions (sliced) | 2 medium-sized |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1/3 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/3 cup |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 2 sprigs |
Preparation Time
30 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Pomfret
To begin making Lagan Ki Machli, we will first marinate the pomfret fish to infuse it with flavor. Start by cleaning and gutting the fish. Then, rub the fish with ginger and garlic paste, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. Add salt to taste, followed by lemon juice, red chili powder, and turmeric powder. Mix everything together and let the fish marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
While the fish is marinating, heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat. Add cumin seeds (jeera), star anise, and the cinnamon stick. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant, allowing the spices to release their aroma. Next, add the dry red chilies and sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent, taking care not to brown them too much. This will help create a smooth and flavorful base for the curry.
Step 3: Spice it Up
Once the onions are cooked, add the red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Allow the spices to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps bring out the richness of the spices and prevents them from tasting raw.
Step 4: Add Tomato Puree and Yogurt
Next, add the homemade tomato puree to the pan. Stir it into the spices and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Reduce the heat to low and add the yogurt, mixing it well to create a smooth, creamy texture for the gravy. Add salt to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Cook the Fish
Now, gently place the marinated pomfret fish into the gravy. Cover the pan and let the fish simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender. You can occasionally spoon the gravy over the fish to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the fish is cooked, sprinkle fresh coriander leaves (dhania) over the top of the curry for a burst of freshness and color. Your Lagan Ki Machli is now ready to be served!
Serve this delicious pomfret curry with steamed rice, naan, or paratha for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy, spiced gravy combined with the tender fish creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portions used.
Lagan Ki Machli is a dish that combines the best of Indian spices and fresh, flavorful fish. The layers of aromatic spices like cumin, garam masala, and star anise create a rich, fragrant curry that perfectly complements the delicate pomfret. With the addition of creamy yogurt and homemade tomato puree, this dish becomes a luxurious experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a regular dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
