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No matter what, non-vegetarian Odias can’t go a weekend without their ‘Machha’ dishes. From Machha Tarkari (fish curry) to the very humble Machha Bhaja (fish fry), Odia cuisine has an array of delicious fish dishes waiting to be relished. Odias have a fish dish for every occasion. From weddings to death rituals, (yes, Odias eat fish on the 12th day of a person’s date) almost every Odia occasion has a fish day to go with it. And one cannot blame this intense love affair between Odias and fish dishes on Odias alone. The abundance of freshwater rivers across the state is responsible for the generous supply of varieties of fish in the state. You are sure to find fish in every form in Odisha- from a spicy gravy to a crispy snack and a decadent bowl of Chhinchada. If you are looking for some delicious Odia fish dishes, here are five dishes you can try.
Machha Tarkari
A staple curry in almost all Odia households, Macha Tarkari is made by cooking fried fish in an onion and tomato gravy. Personally, making Machha Tarkari is a mandatory ritual for at least two weekends. You can try the recipe below and savour this curry with steamed rice.
Machha Besara
Yet another simple and delicious Odia delicacy, Machha Besara is a quintessential fish dish to be savoured with Pakhala or Garam Bhata (steamed rice). Fried fish pieces are cooked in mustard gravy and the curry is brought to the right consistency depending on the side dish (Pakhala and steamed rice).
Machha Chhinchada
A decadent fish head and vegetable dish, Machha Chhinchada is popularly savoured in numerous parts of Odisha. Highly nutritious and filling, Machha Chhinchada is made with fish head, Bengal gram, and an assortment of vegetables.
Machha Bhaja
A quintessential element in a Pakhala platter, Machha Bhaja is “simplicity at its best”. Fish pieces are first marinated in salt, turmeric powder and red chilli powder and then either pan-fried or deep-fried.
Machha Patra Poda
Gobsmackingly delicious, aromatic, and wholesome, Machha Patra Poda is a one-of-a-kind fish dish. Fish pieces are marinated in mustard paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and either steamed or pan-cooked to perfection.
Try these delectable fish dishes at home and let us know how you like them.
