Macher jhal is a Bengali fish curry made with barramundi, turmeric, cumin, and chili, pressure-cooked in an Instant Pot for tender fish in just 5 minutes. This minimal-spice dish comes together in under 20 minutes and serves as an authentic weeknight meal alongside steamed rice.
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Clean and prep the fish. Cut them into 1-2 inch thick pieces.
Rub 1 teaspoon of turmeric and ½ teaspoon of salt on the fish. Cover and set it aside.
Slice the onions. Chop the ginger, garlic, and tomatoes. Slit the green chili or serrano pepper.
Set the Instant Pot in saute mode and add oil.
Add onion, ginger, and garlic. Saute for 3-4 minutes, until the onions soften.
Add tomatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, remaining 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and saute for 2-3 minutes.
Add ½ cup of water and deglaze the pot.
Add the fish and green chili. Mix gently.
Secure the IP lid and set the Instant Pot on pressure cook mode on Low pressure for 5 minutes (see notes).
Once the Instant Pot beeps, do a quick release of the pressure.
Open the lid and add cilantro.
Mix gently and serve warm with steamed rice.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave to avoid breaking the fish; add a splash of water if the curry has thickened.
Instant Pot
Barramundi is traditional, but any firm white fish (cod, halibut, sea bass) works well. Avoid delicate fish that break apart easily during pressure cooking.
Yes. Simmer the curry base for 5–7 minutes, add the fish and green chili, then cover and simmer for 6–8 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
Turmeric seasons the fish internally, prevents it from breaking apart, and adds flavor. It's a traditional step in Bengali fish cooking.
Yes. Double or halve the ingredients as needed. Keep the pressure-cook time at 5 minutes on low pressure; the Instant Pot adjusts naturally for larger batches.
It's mildly spiced. Adjust the chili powder or cayenne to taste. The green chilis add flavor and can be removed before serving if you prefer less heat.
