Grind the mustard seeds with a pinch of salt and the green chilies, then soak the paste 15 minutes and strain it — raw or over-ground mustard turns viciously bitter, and salt during grinding is what holds that back.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
About as virtuous as dinner gets. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
Rub the steaks with 1/2 tsp turmeric and salt; rest 15 min. Grind both mustards with a pinch of salt and 3 chilies to a fine paste, soak in 200 ml water 15 min, then strain out the husk.20 min
Heat 3 tbsp mustard oil to smoking, then cool slightly. Add the strained mustard liquid, remaining turmeric, salt and the rest of the slit chilies; simmer 3 min.5 min
Slide in the fish in a single layer. Cover and cook on low 8–10 min, spooning gravy over, never stirring hard.10 min
Pour the remaining 2 tbsp raw mustard oil over the top, cover, rest 2 min off heat. Serve with plain steamed rice.3 min
Can you make Shorshe Ilish in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Shorshe Ilish? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Shorshe Ilish ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Shorshe Ilish gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Shorshe Ilish vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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