Ilish Bhapa / Steamed Hilsa

Ingredients:

• 3 large pieces of ilish / hilsa fish
• 1 pinch kalonji
• 2 green chilies (slitted)
• 1 tbsp. poppy seeds (make a paste)
• 1 1/4 tsp. yellow mustard seeds (make a paste)
• 2 tbsp. grated coconut (make a paste)
• 1/4 tsp. green chili paste
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp. mustard oil

Making Procedure:

Wash the fish and smear a little bit of salt to it. Then keep aside for 10-15 minutes.

In a bowl add poppy seed paste, mustard paste, coconut paste, green chili paste, salt and mix well. Marinate the fish with the mixture.

Pour 1 tbsp. oil in a stainless steel container and place the marinated fish into it. Add 2 green chilies and spread 1 tbsp. oil over the fish. Then cover it very tightly with the lid (choose air-tight container).

Take a pressure cooker and add 1/2 cup of water. Now place the container into the cooker. Now close the cooker lid and give 3-4 whistle on low-medium heat. Remove from heat and keep aside until the steam dissipate on its own.

Serve hot with plain white rice.