Patra Ni Machi (Fish with Green Chutney) Recipe
Description
Patra Ni Machi is a traditional Parsi dish where tender fish steaks are wrapped in a banana leaf with a fragrant and flavorful green chutney made of coconut, mint, coriander, ginger, and green chilies. The fish is then steamed or grilled, infusing the delicate meat with aromatic spices, making it a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This dish has a mildly spicy profile and can be served with steamed rice, making it perfect for a light and wholesome meal.
Spice Level
Medium
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Dietary Info
Contains Coconut
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Seabass or Pomfret steaks | 4 pieces |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 100g |
| Green chillies | 3 pieces |
| Coriander, washed | 50g |
| Mint leaves, washed | 50g |
| Ginger | 4cm piece |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Cumin powder | ½ tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Lemon | 1 |
| Banana leaf, washed thoroughly, central spine removed | 1 large |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fish:
- Place the seabass or pomfret steaks on a tray.
- Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the fish steaks.
- Sprinkle salt (about ½ tsp) and turmeric powder over the fish.
- Rub the mixture all over the fish to coat it evenly.
- Set the fish aside to marinate for 20 minutes.
-
Make the Green Chutney:
- Crush the cumin seeds or use pre-ground cumin powder.
- In a blender, combine the grated coconut, green chillies, coriander leaves, mint leaves, ginger, garlic cloves, a pinch of salt, and the cumin powder.
- Blend the mixture into a smooth chutney paste, adding a dash of water if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
-
Coat the Fish:
- After the fish has marinated, generously coat each fish steak with the prepared green chutney paste. Make sure all sides of the fish are covered with the aromatic chutney.
-
Prepare the Banana Leaves:
- Pat the banana leaves dry using a clean kitchen towel.
- Lightly smear the smooth side of each banana leaf with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
-
Wrap the Fish:
- Place one piece of fish in the center of each piece of banana leaf.
- Fold the leaf into a neat parcel, ensuring the fish is fully enclosed. You can secure the parcel by tying it with kitchen twine or using a toothpick.
-
Cook the Fish:
- The fish parcels can either be griddled on a hot pan or steamed.
- To griddle: Place the wrapped fish on a heated griddle for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- To steam: Place the parcels in a steamer and cook for 15 minutes until the fish is tender and cooked through.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Patra Ni Machi in the banana leaf parcels for an authentic presentation, alongside some steamed rice. The fish will have absorbed the chutney’s flavors, creating a delicious and aromatic dish.
Enjoy your flavorful Patra Ni Machi, a perfect fusion of spice, citrus, and the earthy aroma of banana leaves!
