Should Fish and Milk Go Together?

“Never eat fish and curd together!” says Grandma, wagging her finger at the dinner table. “You’ll end up with spots on your skin!” Her grandchildren listen wide-eyed, as she explains this age-old caution, passed down through generations. According to tradition — and Grandma’s wise words — mixing fish, which “heats” the body, and milk, which “cools” it, is bound to spell trouble. But is there any truth behind it?

The Tale of “Troubled Tummies”

This belief has roots in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian practice that classifies fish and milk as “incompatible” foods, or viruddha aahar. The idea is that these two elements may disrupt the body’s balance and lead to skin issues or digestive discomfort. But before you abandon your favorite fish curry for fear of folklore, let’s see what science has to say.

What Modern Science Says (Spoiler: No Cause for Concern)

Despite Grandma’s warnings, modern science has yet to confirm any negative effects from combining fish and milk. In fact, healthy diets worldwide often include this pairing without a hiccup. Mediterranean meals, considered some of the world’s healthiest, commonly bring fish and yogurt together without any side effects. So, it seems like this myth might be more about tradition than actual trouble.

The Real Stars: Fish and Curd Classics

In Odisha, for example, Dahi Macha Besara — fish in a curd and mustard sauce — is a cherished dish, a perfect marriage of tangy, creamy, and spicy flavors. Over in West Bengal, Doi Maach has fish simmering in yogurt gravy, spiced and creamy, filling kitchens with its comforting aroma. These dishes have been enjoyed for generations without concern for mythical skin spots or digestive disasters.

Meanwhile, in Gujarat and Maharashtra, people tend to avoid pairing fish with dairy products. Instead, they rely on ingredients like coconut or tamarind in their fish curries, staying away from curd or milk based on traditional beliefs.

Verdict? The Flavor Wins!

There’s no scientific evidence that combining fish and milk causes health problems. So, while Grandma’s advice may be heartfelt, it’s not exactly fact. Dishes like Dahi Macha Besara and Doi Maach show us that when it comes to flavor, fish and curd can be a match made in culinary heaven. Ayurveda’s caution is about balance, not hard-and-fast rules, so if you love the combo, enjoy it guilt-free!

Source: https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/should-you-or-shouldnt-you-eat-fish-and-milk-together-1723336