Hilsa (or Ilish) Paturi is a traditional Bengali dish where hilsa fish fillets are marinated in a spicy paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed or cooked until tender. Here's a basic recipe to make Hilsa Paturi:
Ingredients:
Hilsa fish fillets (cut into pieces)
Banana leaves (cut into pieces for wrapping)
Mustard oil
Salt to taste
Turmeric powder
Red chili powder
Mustard seeds
Poppy seeds
Green chilies
Yogurt
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
Grind mustard seeds, poppy seeds, and green chilies into a smooth paste. You can add a bit of water if necessary.
Mix the paste with mustard oil, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and yogurt. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Marinate the Fish:
Coat the hilsa fish fillets with the prepared marinade. Make sure to cover the fish pieces evenly with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Wrap in Banana Leaves:
Take pieces of banana leaves and quickly pass them over a flame to make them pliable.
Place a marinated fish fillet on each piece of banana leaf and wrap it securely. You can use toothpicks to secure the ends if needed.
Steam or Cook:
You can steam the wrapped fish parcels in a steamer for about 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
Alternatively, you can cook them in a pan. Heat a pan, add a little mustard oil, and place the wrapped fish parcels in it. Cover and cook on low heat until the fish is cooked.
Serve:
Once cooked, carefully unwrap the banana leaves.
Serve the Hilsa Paturi hot with steamed rice.
Tips:
Make sure the banana leaves are clean and free from any tears.
Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.
Use fresh hilsa fish for the best flavor.
You can add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a tangy kick.
Enjoy your Hilsa Paturi!