Gogji Aar Fry

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Fish and Turnips

   • Rinse the fish steaks under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
   • In a mixing bowl, marinate the fish with 1/2 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Set aside for 15 minutes.
   • Meanwhile, peel the turnips and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. 2

   Shallow Fry the Fish

   • Place a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium-high heat. Add the mustard oil and heat it until it reaches its smoking point, then reduce the heat to medium.
   • Carefully place the marinated fish steaks in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
   • Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown, crisp, and cooked through.
   • Remove the fried fish with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
3. 3

   Shallow Fry the Turnips

   • In the same oil, add the sliced turnips in a single layer.
   • Fry on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are tender and have developed golden-brown spots.
   • Once cooked, remove the turnips from the pan and set them aside with the fried fish.
4. 4

   Prepare the Spice Masala

   • Reduce the heat to low. There should be about 1-2 tablespoons of oil left in the pan; if not, add a little more.
   • Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida to the oil. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • In a small bowl, combine the Kashmiri red chili powder, remaining 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, fennel powder, and dry ginger powder. Add 1/4 cup of water and mix to form a smooth paste.
   • Pour this spice paste into the pan. Stirring continuously, cook for 2-3 minutes until the paste thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
5. 5

   Combine and Finish the Dish

   • Add the fried turnips and the remaining 1 tsp of salt to the masala. Mix gently to coat the turnips well.
   • Carefully place the fried fish pieces back into the pan.
   • Gently toss everything together, ensuring the fish is coated with the masala without breaking apart. Cook for 2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. 6

   Serve

   • Serve Gogji Aar Fry hot, traditionally accompanied by steamed rice to soak up the delicious flavors.