Ilish Paturi(ইলিশ পাতুরি)

 Ilish Paturi Recipe – A traditional and delicious Bengali dish made with hilsa fish wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or pan-cooked with mustard paste.

Ingredients:

Hilsa fish pieces – 4-5 medium-sized pieces

Mustard paste – 2 tbsp

Poppy seed paste – 1 tbsp

Green chili paste – from 2 green chilies

Grated coconut – 1 tbsp

Mustard oil – 2 tbsp

Salt – to taste

Turmeric powder – 1/2 tsp

Banana leaves – for wrapping (soften them slightly by warming on a pan)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a bowl, mix mustard paste, poppy seed paste, green chili paste, grated coconut, mustard oil, salt, and turmeric powder until well combined.

2. Marinate the Fish: Coat the hilsa pieces generously with the spice mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes so the flavors soak in.

3. Wrap the Fish in Banana Leaves: Place each marinated fish piece onto a banana leaf, wrap it securely, and tie with a string to hold it in place. Repeat for each piece.

4. Cook the Fish:

Steaming Method: In a steamer, place the wrapped fish pieces on a stand above water. Cover and steam for about 15-20 minutes.

Pan-Cooking Method: Heat a pan with a little mustard oil and place the wrapped fish on it. Cook each side for 7-8 minutes on medium heat, ensuring the fish is fully cooked inside.

5. Serve: Once done, serve the Ilish Paturi hot with steamed rice. The aroma of the banana leaf and mustard paste will add a unique flavor to the hilsa.

Enjoy this traditional Bengali delicacy!