Bhetki Paturi

Bhakti Paturi is a traditional Bengali dish where fish or vegetables are marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed or grilled.

Here's a recipe for Bhakti Paturi using fish: Ingredients: - 500 grams fish fillets (Bketki Fish) - 2 tablespoons mustard paste - 1 tablespoon poppy seed paste - 1 tablespoon yogurt - 1 teaspoon ginger paste - 1 teaspoon garlic paste - 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder - Salt to taste - 2 tablespoons mustard oil - Banana leaves, cut into large squares and washed - Thread or toothpicks for tying the banana leaves

Instructions:

1. Clean the fish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine mustard paste, poppy seed paste, yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, chopped green chilies, turmeric powder, salt, and mustard oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

3. Marinate the fish fillets in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

4. Meanwhile, prepare the banana leaves by briefly heating them over an open flame to make them pliable.

5. Place a fish fillet on each banana leaf square and fold the sides to form a packet. Secure the packet with thread or toothpicks to prevent it from opening during cooking.

6. Steam the banana leaf packets in a steamer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. Alternatively, you can grill the packets on a barbecue or grill pan until the fish is cooked and the banana leaves char slightly.

7. Once cooked, carefully open the banana leaf packets and serve the Bhakti Paturi hot with rice or as part of a traditional Bengali meal.

Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful Bhakti Paturi!