🐟 Ilish Paturi – Hilsa Wrapped & Steamed in Banana Leaf

Ilish Paturi is a traditional Bengali delicacy, where the flavorful Hilsa fish (Ilish) is marinated with mustard paste and aromatic spices, wrapped lovingly in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection, retaining its delicate aroma and moisture.

🛒 Ingredients:

• 🐟 Hilsa fish (Ilish) – 6-8 pieces (around 500 grams), cleaned and sliced
• 🌿 Banana leaves – cut into squares (8-10 pieces)
• 🥄 Black mustard seeds – 3 tbsp
• 🥄 Yellow mustard seeds – 2 tbsp
• 🥥 Fresh coconut (grated) – ½ cup
• 🌶️ Green chilies – 6-7 pieces (or as per taste)
• 🥛 Plain yogurt/curd – 3 tbsp
• 🌶️ Red chili powder – 1 tsp (optional)
• 🌱 Turmeric powder – 1½ tsp
• 🧂 Salt – as per taste
• 🍋 Mustard oil – 4 tbsp
• 🍋 Lime juice – 1 tbsp (optional)
• 🍃 Thread or toothpicks – to secure the banana leaf parcels

🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Process:

Step 1 – Preparing the Banana Leaves 🍃

• Carefully clean banana leaves, trim edges, and lightly roast over low flame (or dip in warm water) to soften, making them flexible enough for wrapping without cracking.

Step 2 – Preparing the Mustard Paste 🌶️

• Soak black and yellow mustard seeds in water for 15 mins.
• Grind soaked mustard seeds with 3-4 green chilies, grated coconut, and a pinch of salt into a smooth paste. Add a bit of water as needed.

Step 3 – Marinating the Fish 🐟

• In a bowl, gently mix hilsa pieces with freshly ground mustard paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder (optional), yogurt, salt, lime juice, and mustard oil (2 tbsp).
• Coat all pieces evenly, ensuring flavors are well absorbed. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Step 4 – Wrapping the Hilsa in Banana Leaves 🌿

• Place one marinated piece of hilsa along with a teaspoon of extra marinade paste on each banana leaf square.
• Top with an additional drizzle of mustard oil and a slit green chili.
• Fold the banana leaf securely, making neat parcels, and tie gently using thread or secure using toothpicks.

Step 5 – Steaming the Parcels 🔥

• Heat water in a steamer or wide pan.
• Arrange banana leaf parcels on the steaming rack. Steam gently over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until fish is fully cooked and flavors infused.

Step 6 – Serving 🥘

• Carefully remove parcels from the steamer.
• Serve hot, directly in the banana leaf parcels, accompanied by steaming hot rice, slices of lime, and fresh green chilies.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot parcels alongside plain steamed rice or traditional Bengali pulao.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness.

🧑‍🍳 Chef’s Tips & Notes:

• Use fresh, thick hilsa pieces to enhance flavor and texture.
• Ensure banana leaves are tenderized properly to avoid tearing during wrapping.
• For enhanced aroma, drizzle extra mustard oil before steaming.
• Traditionally served as a centerpiece dish, offering a delightful aroma when parcels are opened.

✨ Enjoy the aromatic delicacy, savoring the magic of traditional Bengali flavors! 🍽️🌿🐟