Shorshe Ilish as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Shorshe Ilish is absolutely in that category. The fresh and fishy quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. hilsa fish does work that no substitute can replicate.

Bengali cuisine shares roots with West Bengal India but has distinct Muslim food traditions. There's something about the a family Friday hilsa lunch context that reinforces the comfort effect. jhal muri puffed rice snack alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.