Ilish Macher Paturi

Ingredients

• 4 Hilsa fish fillets (500g / 1.1 lb) 4 Hilsa fish fillets (500g / 1.1 lb)
• 4 tablespoons mustard paste 4 tablespoons mustard paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 4 banana leaves, cut into square pieces (20cm / 8 inches) 4 banana leaves, cut into square pieces (20cm / 8 inches)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, mix together the mustard paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and mustard oil.
2. 2.
   Marinate the fish fillets with the prepared mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Take a banana leaf square and place a marinated fish fillet in the center.
4. 4.
   Fold the banana leaf to form a parcel, securing it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process for the remaining fish fillets.
6. 6.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
7. 7.
   Place the banana leaf parcels on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and the banana leaves are slightly charred.
8. 8.
   Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving.
9. 9.
   Serve the Ilish Macher Paturi hot with steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mustard paste — If you can't find ready-made mustard paste, you can make your own by grinding yellow mustard seeds with a little water until it forms a smooth paste.
• Banana leaves — Before using banana leaves, make sure to wash them thoroughly and remove the tough central rib. You can soften the leaves by briefly blanching them in boiling water or by lightly toasting them over an open flame.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can increase the amount of red chili powder in the marinade.
• For a smokier flavor, you can grill the banana leaf parcels over charcoal instead of using a gas grill.
• If you don't have access to fresh banana leaves, you can use parchment paper as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Serving advice

Serve the Ilish Macher Paturi hot with steamed rice and a side of lemon wedges. The tangy citrus flavor of the lemon complements the rich flavors of the fish.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, carefully unwrap the banana leaf parcels at the table, allowing the aroma to waft through the air. The vibrant yellow color of the fish against the charred banana leaves creates an enticing visual appeal.