How to Cook Dried Fish Without Smell: Tips & Techniques

Dried fish is a beloved ingredient in many cuisines, known for its rich umami flavor and long shelf life. However, cooking dried fish can sometimes be tricky due to its strong smell, which some people may find overwhelming. If you’re a fan of dried fish but hesitant to cook it because of the odor, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore simple tips and techniques to cook dried fish without smell, so you can enjoy its authentic flavors without any hassle.

Why Does Dried Fish Smell Strong?

Before diving into the solutions, let’s understand why dried fish has a strong smell. The drying process concentrates the natural oils and proteins in the fish, which can release a pungent aroma when cooked. Salted dried fish may also have an intense smell due to the curing process. While this aroma is part of its charm for many, it can be reduced or masked with proper cooking methods.

9 Proven Ways to Reduce the Smell of Dried Fish While Cooking

Here are some tried-and-tested methods to minimize the smell of dried fish while retaining its delicious taste:

1. Soaking the Dried Fish

Soaking dried fish is an essential step to reduce its strong smell and saltiness. This process rehydrates the fish, making it softer and easier to cook while also removing excess salt and odor. In Chinese cuisine as well, soaking dried fish for about two hours is a common practice before using it in stir-fries or soups.

To do this, simply immerse the dried fish in a bowl of water and let it soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the thickness and saltiness of the fish. For better results, change the water midway through soaking. 

For an added boost in odor control, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the soaking water. This not only neutralizes the smell but also enhances the freshness of the fish.

2. Boiling Before Cooking

Boiling dried fish before cooking is an effective way to reduce its strong smell. This method works by extracting some of the pungent oils from the fish, leaving it milder in aroma and ready for further preparation. 

To do this, first soak the fish as recommended, then boil it in plain water for 3–5 minutes. Once done, discard the water to eliminate the extracted oils and odors. 

For an extra touch, add a few slices of ginger or a bay leaf to the boiling water—these natural ingredients help neutralize the smell while adding subtle flavor to the fish.

3. Frying with Aromatic Spices

Frying dried fish with aromatic spices is a flavorful way to reduce its strong smell while enhancing its taste. The robust aroma of spices like garlic, ginger, onions, curry leaves, and green chilies helps mask the fishy odor and adds depth to the dish. 

To do this, heat oil in a pan and fry the dried fish along with these aromatic ingredients until golden and fragrant. 

For a popular Indian twist, sprinkle some turmeric and red chili powder during cooking. These spices not only neutralize the smell but also give the dish a vibrant color and authentic Indian flavor.

4. Cooking with Acidic Ingredients

Cooking dried fish with acidic ingredients is a great way to neutralize its strong smell while enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Acids like tomatoes, vinegar, tamarind paste, or citrus juices (such as lemon or lime) work effectively to balance out the pungent aroma of the fish. 

To use this method, simply incorporate these acidic ingredients into your recipe—whether it’s a curry, stew, or stir-fry. Not only do they reduce the odor, but they also add a delightful tanginess that complements the rich umami flavor of dried fish.

5. Steam Cooking

Steam cooking is a gentle and effective method to prepare dried fish while significantly reducing its strong odor. Unlike frying or boiling, steaming produces less smell and helps retain the natural flavors of the fish. 

To do this, wrap the dried fish in banana leaves or aluminum foil along with aromatic herbs and spices such as curry leaves, ginger, garlic, or green chilies. The wrapping locks in the flavors and prevents the smell from spreading. Steam the fish until it’s tender and infused with the subtle aroma of the added ingredients, resulting in a delicious and less pungent dish.

6. Good Ventilation

Ensuring good ventilation in your kitchen is one of the simplest ways to manage the strong smell of dried fish while cooking. Proper airflow helps dissipate odors quickly, preventing them from lingering in your home. 

To achieve this, always cook dried fish in a well-ventilated space—open windows to let fresh air in, turn on exhaust fans to draw out the smell, or use an air purifier to filter the air.

7. Incorporating Dried Fish into Soups or Stews

Adding dried fish to soups or stews is a fantastic way to enjoy its rich umami flavor without being overwhelmed by its strong aroma. The robust smell of the fish blends harmoniously with other ingredients, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. 

To do this, cut the dried fish into small pieces and add it to a pot of flavorful broth. Ingredients like vegetables, coconut milk, or lentils work wonderfully to mellow out the smell while enhancing the taste.

8. Using Fresh Ingredients

Fresh herbs and vegetables are excellent companions for dried fish, as they help balance out its strong aroma while adding freshness and vibrancy to the dish. Combine dried fish with ingredients like curry leaves, coriander leaves, bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes to create a well-rounded flavor profile. The natural freshness of these ingredients complements the intense umami of dried fish, resulting in a delicious and aromatic meal.

9. Clean Cooking Equipment Thoroughly

After preparing dried fish, it’s essential to clean your cooking utensils and cookware immediately to prevent lingering smells in your kitchen. Use warm soapy water along with lemon juice or vinegar to scrub pots, pans, and utensils thoroughly. This not only removes odors but also ensures your equipment is ready for your next cooking adventure. 

Why Choose Premium Dried Fish?

When cooking dried fish, starting with high-quality ingredients makes all the difference! Our premium 100% natural dried fishes are sourced from rural India and prepared using traditional methods without any artificial additives or preservatives. By choosing our products, you not only enjoy authentic flavors but also support local communities.

Cooking dried fish doesn’t have to be intimidating! With these simple tips and techniques, you can reduce its strong smell while enjoying its unique flavors. If you are ready to try cooking dried fish, you can explore our range of premium-quality dried fishes, dried prawns, chutney powders, and non-veg pickles today! 

Looking for inspiration? Check out our Recipes section for mouthwatering dishes.