Ilish Bhapa, or Steamed Hilsa, is one of Bangladesh’s most beloved traditional dishes. The rich, oily flavor of Hilsa, combined with mustard paste and green chili, gives a royal Bengali taste. This recipe is perfect with hot steamed rice and is a must-try for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces Hilsa fish (Ilish)
- 3 tbsp mustard paste
- 2 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- 4-5 green chilies (slit)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Instructions:
- Clean the Hilsa fish pieces and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix mustard paste, turmeric, salt, and mustard oil.
- Coat fish pieces with the mixture.
- Place them in a banana leaf or steaming dish with green chilies.
- Steam for 15–20 minutes until soft and flavorful.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.