
BENGALI MUSTARD DELICACY
Shorshe Salmon
While traditionally prepared with freshwater hilsa in West Bengal, salmon's rich, fatty texture makes it an ideal vessel for Shorshe Maach. The centerpiece of the dish is a freshly ground mustard paste—sharp, pungent, and aromatic—tempered with turmeric, nigella seeds, and fresh green chilies simmered in warm mustard oil.
Ingredients(2 People)
- 2 salmon fillets, cut into thick steaks
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard seeds & 1 tbsp brown mustard seeds (ground into a paste with 3 tbsp water)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- Salt to taste
Le Fumoir Tip
Soak your mustard seeds in warm water before grinding, and add a pinch of salt to the blender to prevent the paste from turning bitter.
Method(15 mins)
- 01 Rub salmon with half the turmeric and a pinch of salt. Lightly sear in 1 tbsp mustard oil for 1 minute per side; set aside.
- 02 Add remaining oil to the pan and toss in nigella seeds until they sputter (about 10 seconds).
- 03 Reduce heat to low; stir in the mustard paste, remaining turmeric, slit green chilies, salt, and 1/2 cup of water to create a thin broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- 04 Place the salmon back into the pan, cover, and simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until the sauce coats the fish.



