Hutki shira facts for kids
| Alternative names | Hutki shira, Hukoin Shira, Fukoin Shira, Shukoin shira or shutki shira (shira, shuru or jol) |
|---|---|
| Type | Curry |
| Course | Main course |
| Place of origin |  Bangladesh  India |
| Region or state | Sylhet |
| Main ingredients | Hidoil hutki, garlic, turmeric red chili and any seasonal vegetables |
Hutki shira is a special kind of curry from the Sylhet region of Bangladesh and India. It's also known by other names like Hukoin Shira or Shukoin Shira. This dish is made with fermented fish and lots of fresh, seasonal vegetables and leafy greens. What makes it unique is that it's cooked without any oil or fat!
What's in a Name?
The name Hutki shira tells you exactly what the dish is. In the Sylheti language, hutki means fermented fish. In other areas, it might be called Futki, Fukoin, Hukoin, or Shukoin. The word shira means broth or gravy. So, Hutki shira simply means a broth or gravy made with fermented fish.
Different Kinds of Hutki Shira
Hutki shira can be made in many ways, depending on what vegetables are in season. For example, people might use gourd leaves, radishes, or a root vegetable called eddoe.
Traditionally, a specific type of fish called hidoil mas is used. But if hidol fish isn't available, people often use lotia fish instead.
One popular version is called mukhir hutki shira. This recipe uses eddoe, which is also known as mukhi or muki in Bengali. It's sometimes called a "hairy potato" because of its texture.
How Hutki Shira is Made
Making Hutki shira involves a few simple steps. Here's how it's usually done:
- First, the hidol hutki (fermented fish) is soaked in cold water.
- Then, it's put into a large pot with crushed garlic, pureed onion, potatoes, spinach, aubergine (eggplant), red pepper, chili powder, salt, and turmeric. Other seasonal vegetables are added too.
- Sometimes, shrimp are also included for extra flavor.
- The pot is covered and cooked over a high heat.
- As it cooks, the mixture is stirred. Then, pumpkin and aubergine are added.
- Enough water is poured in to create a nice broth.
- Finally, a very spicy Naga chili is added for a kick, and the broth is gently stirred one last time.
Hutki shira is often served hot over cooked rice. It's a flavorful and healthy dish!
See also
In Spanish: Hutki shira para niños
