There is an old Bangali proverb: "MAchhe bhAte bAngAli" - An equivalent English translation might be: Fish + Rice = Bangali.

Bangali is replete with proverbs and sayings that are quite fishy indeed.

eg. "shAk die mAchh DhAka" : To hide the fish with greens. or "bhAja mAchh ultie khete pAre nA" : Cannot eat a fried fish by flipping it. -> An utterly inept person.
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Fish do-peAja
Preparation Time: 30 Minutes


Ingredients


Fish (preferably small, cut into small pieces) 1 cup
Sliced onions: 1/2 cup
Chilli powder/paste (red) 1 tsp
Turmeric powder/paste 1 tsp
Onion paste 2 tbsp
Ginger paste 1/8 tsp
Pepper paste 1/4 tsp
Shredded dhania leaves (cilantro) personal taste
Onion leaves 2 tbsp
Oil 1/3 cupSalt 1 tsp
Tomato (tomatoe for republicans) 2 medium

Procedure


1. Works best with small fish. Out here in the land of non- Bangladeshi fish, try shrimp or any fresh-water fish cut into very small pieces.
2. After heating the oil add all the powder/paste spices and fry for a couple of minutes. You might add a little bit of water if you are using powders only. Make sure you don't burn the spices. (Include the onion pastes)
3. Add the shredded onions and the fish. Add 1/2 cup of water and the salt. Cover the dish and medium-hi heat.
4. When the water has almost evaporated, add tomatoes, cilantero, and the onion leaves. Heat under low-medium heat till the oil starts to float.
5. You are done, now eat. :-)


Comments


Among the fishes available in a typical grocery store, catfish is best suited for Do-peAjA. Shrimp is great too.