The national dish of Bangladesh is most commonly considered to be Hilsa Fish Curry with Rice (Ilish Maach–Bhat).

Hilsa (Ilish) is Bangladesh’s most iconic fish and a national symbol. It’s usually prepared in a mustard-based curry or steamed with mustard paste, green chilies, turmeric, and mustard oil, then served with plain white rice.

This dish reflects the heart of Bangladeshi cuisine and identity, often summed up by the phrase “Machh-e bhat-e Bangali” — fish and rice make a Bengali. Hilsa is especially associated with the monsoon season and celebrations like Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year).

While other dishes such as Kacchi Biryani, Bhuna Khichuri, and Panta Bhat are hugely popular, Hilsa with rice remains the strongest culinary symbol of Bangladesh.