As the hilsa season arrives, Kolkata comes alive with the rich aroma and unmistakable flavour of ilish. From traditional Bengali kitchens to popular eateries, restaurants across the city celebrate the much-loved fish with special ilish festivals featuring a wide variety of classic and contemporary preparations.

For Bengali food lovers, the season is the perfect opportunity to enjoy favourites such as Shorshe Ilish, Bhapa Ilish, Doi Ilish, and Ilish Paturi. Each dish highlights the delicate flavour of hilsa while bringing together the distinctive spices and cooking techniques of Bengali cuisine.

Shorshe Ilish – A Bengali Classic

One of the most iconic hilsa preparations, Shorshe Ilish combines tender pieces of fish with a creamy mustard-based gravy.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces hilsa (ilish)


• 3 tbsp mustard seeds


• 2–3 green chillies


• ½ tsp turmeric powder


• ½ tsp red chilli powder


• 3 tbsp mustard oil


• Salt to taste


• ½ cup water

Method

1. Marinate the hilsa pieces with turmeric and a little salt for 10 minutes.


2. Soak the mustard seeds and grind them with green chillies and a little water to make a smooth paste.


3. Heat mustard oil in a pan and lightly fry the hilsa pieces. Remove and keep aside.


4. In the same pan, add the mustard paste, turmeric, chilli powder and salt.


5. Add water and cook the gravy for a few minutes.


6. Gently place the fried hilsa pieces into the gravy and simmer for 5–7 minutes.


7. Finish with a drizzle of raw mustard oil and serve hot with steamed rice.

Bhapa Ilish – Steamed to Perfection

Bhapa Ilish is another festive favourite. The fish is coated in mustard paste, green chillies and mustard oil before being gently steamed. The result is soft, aromatic and packed with authentic Bengali flavours.

Ilish Paturi – Wrapped in Banana Leaves

For Ilish Paturi, hilsa is marinated with mustard paste, coconut, green chillies and mustard oil, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or cooked slowly. The banana leaf gives the fish a beautiful aroma while keeping it moist and flavourful.

A Festival for Hilsa Lovers

During the hilsa season, Kolkata eateries often create special menus dedicated entirely to ilish. Traditional recipes sit alongside innovative dishes, allowing diners to experience the fish in several different forms.

Whether you prefer a fiery mustard gravy, delicate steamed fish or aromatic paturi, an ilish festival is a celebration of Bengal’s culinary heritage. Pair these dishes with hot steamed rice, and you have a quintessential Bengali feast.

This hilsa season, Kolkata’s eateries offer the perfect excuse to indulge in one of Bengal’s most cherished delicacies.