Shutkiz: Bringing dried fish into modern cuisine

When it comes to modern culinary trends, dishes like pizza and Japanese sushi have become household favourites. Typically made with chicken, beef, or lamb, these global staples rarely include the unique ingredient of dried fish—or "shutki"—that holds a rich culinary heritage in Bangladesh.

But what if dried fish were used to make pizza or sushi? Add to that shutki salads, momos, and various snacks, or even long-lasting items like shutki pickles and balachao. Intriguing, isn't it?

Yes, you read that right. With the right recipes, dried fish can be transformed into not only delectable but also healthy modern dishes.

To popularise shutki among younger generations, a dried fish cooking competition brought chefs from across the country to showcase creative recipes. The result? Over 400 innovative shutki dishes are now part of a comprehensive recipe collection created by Chattogram-based firm Plan B Solutions. These recipes are freely accessible on their website, shutkiz.com, making them available to food enthusiasts everywhere.

Misconceptions about shutki

Opinions about shutki vary widely across different social and age groups in Bangladesh. Despite its nutritional richness, dried fish often carries a stigma due to misconceptions about its odour, hygiene, and preparation methods. For many, even the mention of shutki is enough to turn up their noses.

Unfortunately, these misconceptions are not unfounded. Issues like poor packaging, unpleasant smells, and traditional cooking methods have made this protein-rich delicacy less appealing over time, particularly to younger generations. In response, Plan B Solutions took on the challenge in 2020 to address these issues and revitalise the market for local dried fish producers.

Addressing key challenges

1. Chemical-free production
Founder Touhidul Islam shared that the priority was producing shutki free of harmful chemicals. Unscrupulous traders often use chemicals to preserve fish and extend its shelf life, creating serious health risks. 

However, with awareness, technical skills, and modern technology, 100% chemical-free shutki is entirely achievable.

By collaborating with Japanese experts and using advanced techniques, Plan B Solutions has successfully produced dried fish free of chemicals and dust from the start. This ensures that consumers can enjoy shutki without worrying about safety or quality.

2. Eliminating unpleasant odours
The team conducted extensive research to neutralise the strong smell often associated with shutki. Using state-of-the-art technology, they identified the causes of the odour and implemented solutions, including improved fish processing and premium packaging. 

As a result, their shutki retains a mild, appetising aroma instead of an overwhelming smell.

3. Stylish and convenient packaging
To make buying and transporting shutki hassle-free, Plan B Solutions introduced air-tight, attractive packaging. This not only preserves the product but also eliminates embarrassment for buyers, even during long-distance travel. 

Today, shutki is being gifted to friends, family, and even colleagues without hesitation.

4. Diverse recipes to suit modern tastes
One of the final hurdles was to make shutki appealing to modern palates. The company organised cooking competitions titled "Huni Radhontay Guni Hon" (Master Chefs of Hidden Gems), encouraging chefs nationwide to create unique and delicious shutki recipes. 

The outcome was a treasure trove of dishes, many of which are now compiled into a recipe magazine and hosted on their website.

Making shutki accessible to all

Through their efforts, Plan B Solutions has reimagined the way shutki is perceived and consumed. From chemical-free production to convenient delivery in modern, elegant packaging, shutki is now accessible to everyone. 

Customers can easily place orders online and have this safe, odour-free, and delicious dried fish delivered straight to their doorsteps.

Shutki is no longer just a traditional item; it's becoming a versatile delicacy, bridging the gap between heritage and modern cuisine. With creative recipes and a commitment to quality, shutki may soon reclaim its place as a beloved food for all ages.