In Madhya Pradesh's Burhanpur district, a red-spotted river fish known locally as the Laal Pari, or red fairy, has turned into a favourite on dinner plates. Pulled mostly from the Tapti river that flows through the district, this fish is prized for having very few bones and an outstanding taste, and it currently sells in the local market for between 250 rupees and 300 rupees a kilogram.
What makes this fish so special
Speaking about the fish, expert Banwari Metkar explained that the Tapti river in Burhanpur district yields the highest numbers of Laal Pari fish found anywhere in the area. According to him, its biggest draw is how tasty it is once cooked, combined with the fact that it has very few bones, which makes it easy and enjoyable to eat. It is also rich in protein, which is why doctors recommend including it in meals. For anyone wanting to cook it at home, Metkar also shared a simple method that lets the dish come together in almost no time.
Why it is called the red fairy fish
The Laal Pari actually belongs to the Rohu species, but in Burhanpur's local dialect it has earned the name red fairy because of the red spots visible on its body, particularly near its fins. That distinctive red colouring, paired with its rich flavour, is what sets it apart from other fish available in the market and explains why so many people prefer it over other varieties.
How to cook Laal Pari fish curry in 10 to 15 minutes
Making this fish curry at home is straightforward. Start by picking up around 1 kilogram of Laal Pari fish from the market. In a kadhai, add 200 grams of onion, 100 grams of ginger garlic paste and 300 grams of oil, and keep stirring the mixture continuously. Next, add 10 grams of whole garam masala, 5 grams of coriander, 10 grams of salt and 15 grams of red chilli, then pour in a little water. Place the fish on top of this mixture and cover the kadhai, letting it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Once that time is up, a quick, flavourful Laal Pari fish curry is ready to serve, and its aroma alone is enough to sharpen anyone's appetite.
With such a short cooking time and a market price that stays within reach for most households, the Laal Pari fish has become a practical everyday option for families in Burhanpur looking for a protein-rich meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
