If you are looking to explore the rich, vibrant world of traditional Bengali fish curries, Needle Fish and New Potato Curry—known authentically as Kakila Macher Jhol or Balahoo Curry—is an absolute classic. Known for its distinct, slender shape and sweet, delicate flesh, needle fish absorbs aromatic spices wonderfully, making it a staple across South Asian and global seafood cuisines.
At Thompson’s Seafood, located in historic Holcombe Market, Tottenham (N17), master fishmonger James sources fresh needle fish alongside our daily catches from Billingsgate Market. Paired with tender British new potatoes and cooked in a light, fragrant mustard oil gravy, this light yet deeply comforting curry brings an authentic taste of Bengal straight to your home kitchen.
What is Needle Fish (Kakila / Balahoo)?
Needle fish is a prized freshwater and estuarine species widely enjoyed throughout Bangladesh, India, and the Caribbean (where it is often called Balahoo).
Flavor Profile: Delicate, mild, and clean with a subtle natural sweetness.
Texture: Tender yet firm enough to hold its shape in light curries and stews.
Preparation: Best scaled, cleaned, and cut into short whole steaks before cooking.
Ingredients
For the Fish Marinade:
500g Fresh Needle Fish (cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces)
½ tsp Turmeric powder
½ tsp Salt
2 tbsp Mustard oil (for shallow frying)
For the Curry (Jhol):
200g Baby new potatoes (halved, skin-on)
2 tbsp Mustard oil (traditional for Bengali flavor)
1 tsp Nigella seeds (Kalonji)
2 Green chillies (slit lengthwise)
1 medium Red onion (finely chopped)
1 tsp Ginger paste
1 tsp Garlic paste
1 tsp Turmeric powder
1 tsp Cumin powder
1 tsp Coriander powder
½ tsp Red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
1 medium Tomato (chopped)
1 cup Warm water
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate and Sear the Fish
Wash the needle fish pieces thoroughly and pat dry. Rub with ½ teaspoon of turmeric and salt. Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a wide pan until smoking hot, then turn down the heat slightly. Gently shallow-fry the needle fish for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside on paper towels. (Do not overcook, as needle fish is delicate.)
2. Parboil and Fry the New Potatoes
In the same pan, add the halved new potatoes with a pinch of turmeric and salt. Fry on medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the edges turn crisp and golden brown. Remove and set aside with the fish.
3. Build the Fragrant Spice Base
Add the remaining mustard oil to the pan. Temper with nigella seeds (kalonji) and slit green chillies until they sizzle. Add the chopped onions and fry until soft and light brown. Stir in the ginger and garlic pastes, cooking for 1 minute until the raw aroma vanishes.
4. Create the Curry Paste
In a small bowl, mix the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chilli powders with 2 tablespoons of warm water to form a smooth spice paste. Add this paste into the pan along with the chopped tomatoes. Cook on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and oil begins to separate from the spice mix (bhuna stage).
5. Simmer with New Potatoes
Add the fried new potatoes into the spice base and toss well to coat. Pour in 1 cup of warm water and season with salt. Bring to a boil, cover with a lid, and simmer on medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender.
6. Add Needle Fish & Finish
Gently lay the fried needle fish pieces into the simmering gravy. Cover and cook on low heat for an additional 3 to 4 minutes so the fish absorbs the aromatic spices. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander and extra slit green chillies. Serve hot alongside piping-hot steamed basmati rice.
Key Nutritional & Health Benefits
Adding fresh needle fish to your weekly diet is a fantastic choice for balanced, healthy eating:
High-Quality Lean Protein: Supports muscle repair and metabolic health without excess saturated fat.
Essential Minerals: Packed with selenium, phosphorus, and iodine to boost thyroid function and immunity.
Heart-Healthy: Low in fat and rich in natural nutrients that support cardiovascular wellness.
Source Fresh Needle Fish at Holcombe Market, Tottenham
Since 1972, Thompson’s Seafood has been North London’s trusted family fishmonger. Located directly opposite Bruce Grove Station in Holcombe Market (N17), James and the team take pride in supplying fresh needle fish, king fish, red snapper, sea bass, and exotic species to home cooks and local caterers across Haringey, Seven Sisters, and Wood Green.
Planning to make this Bengali Needle Fish and New Potato Curry at home? Visit our market counter at Holcombe Market (N17 9AA) to pick up fresh needle fish cleaned to order, or place a pre-order using our online Click & Collect service at thompsonsseafood.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 07368118104.
Tottenham’s Trusted Family Fishmonger at Holcombe Market | Managed by James
Welcome to Thompsons Seafood, located in historic Holcombe Market (N17 9AA) directly opposite Bruce Grove Station. Since 1972, our family-run fishmonger shop has provided North London with premium fresh fish, shellfish, and exotic delicacies.
