Authentic Borali Mas Recipe: Delicious Helicopter Catfish Curry from Assam

By Best Indian Food Blog on 27 Jul 2025

Borali Mas, scientifically known as Wallago attu, is a large, predatory freshwater catfish commonly found in Assam's rivers, lakes, and swamps. Known as the "helicopter catfish" due to its sleek, elongated body and sharp dorsal fin, it's a prized ingredient in Assamese cuisine for its juicy, tender flesh and rich flavor. Unlike Channa Barca (Barca snakehead), Borali Mas is distinct for its size (up to 1.1 meters) and carnivorous nature, often called the "freshwater shark" for its voracious appetite.

In Assam, Borali Mas is a culinary treasure, deeply embedded in the food culture of the region. It's a staple in rural and urban households, often prepared for festivals like Bihu or family gatherings. Fish is central to Assamese cuisine, with most communities relying on local rivers and ponds for fresh catches. Borali Mas is celebrated in dishes like tangy curries or grilled preparations, served with steamed rice, reflecting Assam's love for simple yet flavorful meals.

Borali Mas is highly nutritious, offering 15.4g of protein, 2.7g of fat, 0.6g of iron, 0.16g of calcium, and 0.49g of phosphorus per 100g. Its omega-3 fatty acids support heart health, while mustard oil and spices like turmeric and ginger provide anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. This makes Borali Mas a wholesome choice for fish lovers seeking both flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients: Mustard seed, water, ginger, garlic, green chili, Borali Mas (Helicopter Cat Fish), turmeric, salt, mustard oil.
Recipe at a Glance:
Step 1: Soak mustard seed in water for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Paste ginger, garlic, green chili and soaked mustard seed.
Step 3: Chop and clean Borali Mas.
Step 4: Marinate fish with the paste, salt, turmeric, mustard oil and water.
Step 5: Put it in a tight container, add mustard oil, green chilli and steam to cook.
It's ready to serve, let's taste. 👍