About Bombay Duck Fish (Bombil)
Bombay duck fish, also known as bombil, is a popular seafood delicacy in Indian coastal regions, especially Maharashtra. Despite its name, it is not a duck but a type of fish known for its unique flavor and soft texture. Bombil fry is a classic preparation where the fish is coated in spices and semolina (rava) before being shallow-fried to crispy perfection.
This bombil fry recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and is often enjoyed as a snack or side dish. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this guide will help you make the best bombay duck fry at home.
Table of Contents
How to Clean Bombil (Bombay Duck Fish
Cleaning bombil is an essential step to ensure the dish tastes great. Follow these steps to clean bombil properly:
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the bombay duck fish under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Remove the Head and Tail: Use a sharp knife to cut off the head and tail of the fish.
- Clean the Belly: Make a small incision along the belly and remove the innards. Rinse the cavity thoroughly.
- Remove the Skin: Gently peel off the skin of the fish. This step is optional, as some people prefer to keep the skin for added flavor.
- Pat Dry: Pat the fish dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture.
How to Make Bombil Fry: Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients for Bombil Fry
- 500g bombay duck fish (bombil)
- 1/2 cup semolina (rava)
- 1 tsp fish masala
- 1 tsp koli masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Clean the Fish: Follow the steps above to clean the bombay duck fish thoroughly.
- Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, mix ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, fish masala, koli masala, and salt. Apply this mixture to the fish and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Coat with Semolina: Mix semolina and rice flour in a plate. Coat the marinated fish evenly with this mixture.
- Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a pan. Shallow fry the fish on medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Serve Hot: Serve the bombil fry hot with lemon wedges and green chutney.
Serving Tips for Bombil Fry
- Serve bombil fry as a snack or side dish with steamed rice and dal
- Pair it with a tangy tamarind chutney or green chutney for added flavor.
- For a complete meal, serve with sukha bombil (dry bombil) and a fresh salad.
Substitutes for Ingredients
- Semolina (Rava): Use breadcrumbs or cornmeal for a different texture.
- Fish Masala: Substitute with non-veg masala or fish fry masala for a unique flavor.
- Rice Flour: Use all-purpose flour if rice flour is unavailable
Nutritional Facts
Bombay duck fish is a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers. The nutritional value of bombil includes essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamins.
- Calories: 200-250 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fats: 8g
Beginner's Guide to Making Bombil Fry
If you're new to cooking seafood, don't worry! Bombil fry is beginner-friendly. Follow these tips:
- Clean the fish thoroughly to remove any strong odor
- Use a non-stick pan for frying to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Cook on medium heat to ensure the fish is crispy and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is bombay duck fish?
Bombay duck fish, also known as bombil, is a type of fish popular in Indian coastal cuisine. It is known for its soft texture and unique flavor.
2. How to fry bombil perfectly?
To fry bombil perfectly, marinate the fish with pure indian spices, coat it with semolina, and shallow fry on medium heat until crispy.
3. What are the main ingredients for bombil fry?
The main ingredients for bombil fry are bombay duck fish, semolina, fish masala, and spices like turmeric powder and red chili powder.
4. Can I use non-veg masala for bombil fry?
Yes, you can use non-veg masala or fish fry masala to enhance the flavor of your bombil fry.
5. What is the nutritional value of bombil?
Bombil is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients like calcium and iron.
6. How to make bombil rava fry?
To make bombil rava fry, coat the marinated fish with semolina and shallow fry until crispy.
7. What is bombay duck in marathi?
Bombay duck in marathi is called bombil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this bombil fry recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, bombay duck fry is a delightful dish that pairs well with rice or as a snack. If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more seafood recipes using fish masala and koli masala to enjoy the rich flavors of Indian coastal cuisine.
