"Ilish Bhapa" is a traditional Bengali dish made with hilsa fish, which is a popular fish in Bengali cuisine. The dish is known for its rich flavors and use of mustard paste. Fish is not only an integral part in the dishes of Bengalis but also considered auspicious at any occasion. Varieties of fishes are available in Bengal, but Ilish always wins the hearts of the Bengalis.
Pieces of Hilsa are first coated with the mustard paste and seasoned with salt and turmeric, As hilsa is a soft fish, so cooking time is not that much. In Traditional way, the pieces of Ilish is coated first with mustard paste and then wrapping up in a banana leaf they are steamed along with the rice in a haari or handi. But you can steam in a kadai or a saucepan covered with a lid. Here's a recipe for making Ilish Bhapa:
Ingredients require for Ilish Bhappa:
- 4-6 pieces of hilsa fish
- 3 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (use according to your taste)
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil
- Salt to taste
- Banana leaves or aluminum foil for wrapping
Instructions of making Ilish Bhappa:
1. Clean and wash the hilsa or commonly known Ilish fish pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle some salt and turmeric on the fish pieces and set them aside for about 15 minutes.
2. Soak the mustard seeds in water for about 30 minutes to soften them.
3. In a grinder, combine the soaked mustard seeds, grated coconut, green chilies, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Grind them into a smooth paste. You can add a little water if needed to make a paste.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Take the mustard paste in a bowl. Add mustard oil, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
6. Place each hilsa fish piece on a piece of banana leaf or aluminum foil. Spread a generous amount of the mustard paste mixture over each fish piece.
7. Fold the banana leaf or aluminum foil to wrap the fish securely, creating a packet.
8. Place the wrapped fish packets on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
9. Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the mustard paste has formed a thick coating.
10. Once done, carefully open the packets. Be cautious of the steam that may escape.
11. Serve the Ilish Bhapa hot with steamed rice. The mustard-flavored fish is best enjoyed with the aromatic rice.
Note: If you don't have an oven, you can also prepare Ilish Bhapa on the stovetop. To do this, place the wrapped fish packets in a steamer and steam them for about 20-25 minutes.
Ilish Bhapa is a dish with strong regional flavors and is loved by many Bengali food enthusiasts. Enjoy the unique taste of this traditional dish.
Recipe Card
Cuisine: India, Region: Bengal, Prep Time:30 min, Cooking Time: 20 min, Total Time: 50min, Serving :4 Servings
0 Comments