Fish and man from Maharashtra go hand in hand! There is not a single region in the state where people do not access fish varieties from the state’s shore line. In fact, the fish delicacies from Maharashtra come from a distinct culture and the varieties are as many as there are die hard sea food enthusiasts in the state. Mackerels are by far loved by the young and old alike in the region and are eaten in several ways, including gravies and fried options.
Ingredients:
Around 500 grams of mackerels (could be substituted with fish of your choice)
Some clean banana leaves
2 tbsp grated coconut
2 tbsp chopped coriander
4 green chilies
1/2 tbsp coriander seeds
2 tsp cumin seeds
Juice of 2 whole lemons
Half a cup of chopped garlic
Salt according to your preference and taste
Popular Accompaniments:
This steamed cum fried fish option offers you a unique flavor that is in no way tempered with by the marinade. The subtle flavor of the banana leaf not only rids the table of a fishy smell, but also adds to the health factor of the dish. Mackerels cooked this way go well with plain steamed rice and butter milk or any lentil gravy. The fish fillets could be eaten plain, or with bread or chapattis. Indulge in the tastes of Maharashtra and delve in the heart of the populace with the mackerel delight!
Preparation:
Cut and clean the fish being used in the recipe thoroughly.
The cuts should be such that they can accommodate the special spice mix and marinade made especially in the state of Maharashtra.
Open up each of the fish fillets to ensure the small pockets created prior to applying the marinade.
Rub the fillets with salt and lemon juice.
Allow the fish fillets to marinate for at least an hour.
In the blender, mix together grated coconut, green chilies, coriander leaves and seeds, cumin seeds, garlic, and a little salt to taste.
Don’t forget that the fish already is salted.
Blend all the ingredients well into a paste, and marinade the fish fillets with the paste for about an hour.
Place each fillet on the banana leaves, and apply all the extra marinade around each piece prior to wrapping up each leaf.
Main Cooking:
Set the leaves on the steamer and allow the fillets of mackerels to steam for about 20 minutes.
Presentation:
Serve the fried fish hot, garnished with lemon slices, chopped coriander and onion rings.
