By News18,Swati Chaturvedi

Copyright news18

In India, food is more than sustenance, it is culture, tradition, and community. Among the vast spectrum of culinary delights, one ingredient has a unique power to evoke joy, nostalgia, and creativity: fish. From the bustling markets along the coasts to the kitchens of coastal homes, fish has been a centerpiece of Indian cuisine for generations, celebrated not only for its flavors but for the stories it carries. Shailesh Patel, co-founder, Dam Good Fish, explains, “Within the bustling food culture of India from spicy chaat to creamy curries, there’s one group of foodies whose happiness appears to be almost infectious: fish lovers. Their love for fish sustains them more than a food choice: it is a way of life connected to heritage, health, and community.”
The Science of Happiness on a Plate
Beyond its taste, fish is a natural mood enhancer. Varieties such as Indian mackerel, sardines, salmon, hilsa, and rohu are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, enhance brain function, and contribute to overall well-being. “Eating fatty fish multiple times per week is thought to enhance focus, promote healthy skin and hair, and balance cholesterol levels,” says Shailesh Patel. It is this combination of flavor, nutrition, and mindfulness that makes fish more than just a meal, it becomes a source of comfort and vitality.
Flavours Across the Indian Coast
Fish traditions are deeply embedded along India’s coasts. Chef Lekhu of The Monk reflects on the elegance of simplicity in fish preparation: “For me, fish is about balance and depth. A simple steamed fillet with light spices can speak louder than an elaborate curry. It reflects restraint, purity, and the kind of cooking where less is more.” In contrast, Chef Madhav of The Pastiche highlights its versatility: “Fish allows chefs to play endlessly. You can grill, stew, smoke, or fry it, every method creates a new personality on the plate. It’s versatile enough to suit both rustic kitchens and fine-dining menus.” Together, these perspectives illustrate why fish has remained a favorite across home kitchens and high-end restaurants alike.
Food Adventure and Identity
For many coastal and riverine communities, fish is more than a dish, it is a marker of identity. Rituals, festivals, and daily markets revolve around fish, forging connections within families and communities. In households of Bengali, Goan, or Malayali heritage, preparing a beloved fish recipe is an act of cultural continuity, linking generations and creating shared memories.
Healthful Indulgence Without Guilt
Fish is one of the rare ingredients that combines indulgence with lightness. High in protein yet easy on the digestive system, it allows diners to enjoy multi-course seafood meals without feeling weighed down. Freshwater varieties, whether wild-caught or responsibly farmed, not only offer unique flavors but also connect diners to seasonality and sustainable practices. This mindful approach to enjoying fish reinforces the ingredient’s status as both a healthful and pleasurable choice.
A Taste of Togetherness
The communal aspect of fish is part of its enduring charm. From steaming fish curries shared with family to crispy fried fish enjoyed with friends, meals featuring fish evoke connection, memory, and celebration. Shailesh Patel notes that fish lovers often experience a unique sense of fulfillment, where eating becomes a blend of cultural exploration, creativity, and shared joy.
Ultimately, fish offers endless opportunities for culinary adventure. Each preparation, from simple fillets to elaborate multi-course spreads, reflects centuries of tradition while inviting innovation. As chefs like Madhav and Lekhu demonstrate, fish is a versatile canvas that challenges creativity, celebrates heritage, and nourishes both body and soul. To savour fish is to connect with comfort, curiosity, memory, and culture, a truly soulful culinary experience.