Ilish Paturi
Ilish Paturi
Ilish Paturi is a delectable Bengali recipe where Hilsa fish fillets are marinated in a spicy mustard paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed or grilled. The banana leaves impart a unique aroma and flavor to the fish, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Follow the recipe below to prepare Ilish Paturi at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g Hilsa fish, cut into 4-5 pieces
- 4 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 4 tbsp mustard oil
- Salt, to taste
- Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
- Soak mustard seeds and poppy seeds (if using) in warm water for 20-30 minutes. Drain the water and grind them into a smooth paste, adding a little water if required.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mustard-poppy seed paste, grated coconut (if using), turmeric powder, slit green chilies, mustard oil, and salt. Mix well to form a thick marinade.
- Marinate the Hilsa fish pieces with the prepared mustard sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Clean and cut banana leaves into large squares, removing the central stem. Lightly toast the leaves over an open flame to make them pliable.
- Place each marinated fish piece onto a square of banana leaf, along with some of the marinade. Fold the leaf to form a sealed packet, ensuring the edges are properly sealed.
- Prepare a steamer by filling it with water and bringing it to a boil. Alternatively, you can use a grill or an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F).
- If steaming, place the fish packets in the steamer, making sure they don’t overlap, and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender. If grilling or baking, place the packets on a grill or in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
- Carefully remove the packets from the steamer, grill, or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before opening. Serve the Ilish Paturi hot with steamed rice and enjoy the enticing flavors of this traditional Bengali dish.