Odia Macha Mahura: Traditional Fish Curry with Vegetables

Macha Mahura Recipe – Odia Style Fish Curry with Vegetables

Macha Mahura is a traditional and flavorful dish from Odisha, India, that can be enjoyed in two distinct styles: Niramish Mahura, made without onions and garlic, or Amish Mahura, which includes fish. What sets this recipe apart is the unique process of steaming the fish, then deboning it, and frying it before adding it to the vegetable-based curry. The combination of fish, vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a hearty, comforting, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for your dinner table.

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Soak the black chana (brown chickpeas) overnight to soften.
   • Dry roast the whole coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf in a pan. Once roasted, grind the mixture to a fine powder. Set aside.
   • Dry roast the wadi pieces in the same pan and keep them aside.

2. Steam the Fish:

   • In a separate pan, steam the Rohu fish with a pinch of salt, turmeric powder, and a bay leaf for about 5 to 10 minutes.
   • Strain the water using a wire strainer, then mash the fish gently with the back of a spoon to separate the bones from the flesh. Discard the bones and keep the fish flesh aside. This process is known as Macha Kharada.

3. Fry the Fish:

   • Heat oil in a kadhai (wok). Once the oil is hot, add the mashed fish and fry until it becomes crispy and resembles small pebbles. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Chop the Kaddu (pumpkin), Colocasia root, Elephant yam, and Plantain Stem into small cubes.
   • In a large pot, add the chopped vegetables along with salt, turmeric powder, water, and kala chana. Boil the vegetables until they are half cooked.
   • Once the vegetables are partially cooked, add the powdered masala mix and a tablespoon of sugar. Stir, cover, and cook the vegetables until fully tender.

5. Cook the Curry:

   • In another pan, add some oil and heat it. Once hot, add the Panch Phoran Masala. When it begins to crackle, add the finely sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown.
   • Add the ginger garlic paste and cook until it blends well with the onions.

6. Combine the Fish and Vegetables:

   • To the pan with the onions and ginger garlic paste, add the fried fish and boiled vegetables. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
   • Add the fried crushed badis (wadis) and sprinkle powdered garam masala on top for an added flavor boost.

7. Serve:

   • Macha Mahura is now ready to serve! Pair it with steamed rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve a refreshing Kachumber Salad (a mixed vegetable salad) on the side to complete the dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Fish Substitute: If you don’t have access to Rohu fish, you can use other firm fish varieties like catla, mackerel, or tilapia.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or peas.
• Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of black pepper and green chilies.
• Serving Suggestion: This curry is best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice, but it can also be served with roti or paratha.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Macha Mahura is a protein-packed, nutrient-dense dish that combines tender fish with the wholesome goodness of vegetables. The careful preparation method of steaming and frying the fish adds depth to its flavor, while the fragrant spices infuse the curry with a rich, savory aroma. Whether you’re preparing a simple weekday dinner or hosting a special meal, this traditional Odia recipe is sure to impress!