Koi Macher Rasha (কই মাছের রষা)

 **Koi Machher Rasha** (Climbing Perch Fish Curry)

### Ingredients:

- 500g Koi fish (Climbing Perch)

- 2 tbsp mustard seeds (yellow and black mix)

- 1/2 cup grated coconut

- 3-4 green chilies

- 1 tsp turmeric powder

- 1 tsp cumin powder

- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)

- Salt to taste

- Mustard oil for frying

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the fish**: Clean the Koi fish thoroughly. Rub the fish with turmeric powder and salt. Set aside for 15-20 minutes.

2. **Make the mustard paste**: Soak mustard seeds in water for about 15 minutes. Grind the mustard seeds with 2 green chilies and a little water to make a smooth paste.

3. **Coconut paste**: Grind the grated coconut to a fine paste.

4. **Fry the fish**: Heat mustard oil in a pan until it smokes. Carefully fry the marinated fish until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

5. **Prepare the curry**: In the same oil, add the mustard paste and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell goes away. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (optional), cumin powder, and salt. Stir to mix.

6. **Add coconut paste**: Add the coconut paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.

7. **Add water**: Pour in about 1 to 1.5 cups of water to make the gravy. Bring the mixture to a boil.

8. **Add fish**: Gently place the fried Koi fish in the curry. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the fish to soak up the flavors.

9. **Final touch**: Taste and adjust seasoning. You can add slit green chilies for extra heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

10. **Serve**: Serve hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy your traditional **Koi Machher Rasha**!