Meen Pollichathu Recipe

Meen Pollichathu is a traditional dish from the southern region of India, particularly Kerala. It's a mouthwatering preparation where fish is marinated in a spicy masala, wrapped in banana leaves, and then pan-roasted to perfection. The result is a flavorful and aromatic delicacy that's perfect for special occasions or as a treat for seafood lovers. Here's a detailed recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 500g fish fillets (such as pomfret, kingfish, or tilapia) 🐟
• 2 onions, thinly sliced 🧅
• 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced 🍅
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise 🌶️
• 2 sprigs of curry leaves 🌿
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 🧄
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 🌶️
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 🌞
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 🌿
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder 🌿
• 1/4 cup coconut milk 🥥
• Salt to taste 🧂
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 🌿
• Banana leaves for wrapping 🌿

Instructions:

1. Clean the fish fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make a few shallow cuts on each fillet to help the marinade penetrate.
2. In a bowl, mix together ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt to form a smooth paste.
3. Marinate the fish fillets with this spice paste and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the tomatoes soften.
5. Place a banana leaf on a flat surface. Put a portion of the sautéed onion-tomato mixture in the center of the leaf.
6. Place a marinated fish fillet on top of the onion-tomato mixture.
7. Fold the banana leaf over the fish to cover it completely, creating a neat parcel.
8. Repeat the process for the remaining fish fillets.
9. Heat a flat pan or tawa over medium heat. Place the wrapped fish parcels on the pan.
10. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the banana leaves turn slightly brown and the fish is cooked through.
11. Open the banana leaf parcels carefully and drizzle some coconut milk over the fish.
12. Serve hot with steamed rice or appam for a delightful culinary experience! 🍛🌿🔥

Meen Pollichathu is a true gem of South Indian cuisine, celebrated for its unique flavors and aromatic presentation. The combination of spices, coconut milk, and the earthy aroma of banana leaves creates a sensory experience that's truly unforgettable. Whether enjoyed at home or in a traditional Kerala restaurant, Meen Pollichathu is sure to transport you to the backwaters of Kerala with every bite! 🌴🍽️🐟