Steamed Hilsa Fish (ilish Bhapa)

Steamed Hilsa Fish, also known as Ilish Bhapa, is a traditional dish from the Sylheti Cuisine. This delicate and flavorful dish is a popular choice for special occasions and gatherings.

Steamed Hilsa Fish (ilish Bhapa)

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces of Hilsa fish
  • 1 cup mustard paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 4 green chilies, slit
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon mustard oil
  • 4-5 banana leaves for wrapping

Instructions

  1. Clean the Hilsa fish pieces and pat them dry.
  2. In a bowl, mix the mustard paste, turmeric powder, green chilies, yogurt, salt, and mustard oil to make a marinade.
  3. Coat the fish pieces with the marinade and let them sit for 30 minutes.
  4. Place each marinated fish piece on a piece of banana leaf and wrap it securely.
  5. Steam the wrapped fish pieces for 20 minutes.
  6. Once steamed, carefully open the banana leaf and transfer the fish to a serving plate.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
25g
Fat
20g
Carbohydrates
5g

Supplies

Steamer Banana leaves

Tools

Knife Bowl Brush for applying marinade

Serving suggestions

Serve the Steamed Hilsa Fish with steamed rice for a traditional Sylheti meal.

Tips & tricks

Be careful when handling the hot banana leaves after steaming.

Cost

$20