Machh bhaja facts for kids
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Fried fish, also known as māchh bhājā in some areas, is a very popular dish in parts of South Asia. It is often enjoyed as a tasty snack or a crispy side dish with a meal. This delicious food is especially common in West Bengal, Tripura, Odisha, Assam, and Bangladesh.
What is Fried Fish?
Fried fish is simply fish that has been cooked by frying it in hot oil. People often use different kinds of fish for frying. These include river fish like bhetki, topshey, aarh, and pābdā. Fish that swim from the sea to rivers, like hilsa, are also very popular for frying.
How it's Eaten
In many places, the oil used to fry the fish is not wasted. It can be used as a flavorful dip for other foods. Sometimes, even the roe (fish eggs) of fish like hilsa are fried and eaten this way. For smaller fish, like Maurala, they are often deep-fried until their bones become super crispy. This makes the bones safe and even fun to eat!
Popularity in India
Besides the regions mentioned, fried fish is also a favorite in other parts of India. For example, Karimeen fish fry is a well-loved dish in Kerala, a state in southern India. People there enjoy its unique taste and texture.