Ingredients

1 trout , cleaned ( asala macha )
salt and pepper
1 banana leaf ( approx . 1ft X 2ft )
lemon wedge ( for garnish )
1 teaspoon cumin powder
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
5 fresh red chilies
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon szechwan pepper ( timur )
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon ginger paste
salt and pepper
Fish Poleko is a traditional Nepalese dish that features grilled fish marinated in a special spice mix and then wrapped in a banana leaf. This cooking technique seals in flavors, while preventing the fish from scorching. This grilled fish is often served with rice or naan and makes a perfect dinner for any time of the year. The recipe is simple and quick to prepare, with the result being a healthy, stunning and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The recipe is also versatile and can be adjusted to your preferred taste by adding or reducing the use of chilies.

Instructions

1.Pat dry the trout and make 3-4 slits on both sides of the fish with a sharp knife.
2.Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the fish, including the slits. Keep aside for 15 minutes.
3.In a blender, grind yellow mustard seeds, red chilies and lemon juice together.
4.In a bowl, mix the ground mixture with cumin powder, turmeric, grated nutmeg, szechwan pepper, garlic paste, ginger paste, salt and oil.
5.Smear the mixture all over the fish and also inside the slits. Keep aside for 20 minutes.
6.Preheat the oven at 220°C/430°F.
7.Cut the banana leaf into two parts, keeping the mid-vein. Place the marinated fish on one part and wrap it carefully with the other part. Tie it up with kitchen twine, if necessary.
8.Place the wrapped fish on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
9.Remove the tray from the oven and gently cut open the banana leaf. You should be able to smell the aroma of cooked fish with Nepalese spices.
10.Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice on top of the fish.

PROS

Fish Poleko is a flavorful and healthy sourced of protein.

The spices used in this Nepalese recipe are not only delicious but also offer various health benefits.

CONS

Cooking the fish in a banana leaf can make it a challenge for some to prepare accurately.

If you’re not familiar with the ingredients or spices, the flavor might not be to your liking.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Fish Poleko is full of healthy nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
The cumin, garlic, ginger and turmeric in the recipe have anti-inflammatory properties that can lower the risk of some chronic diseases.

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