Patra ni Macchi - a Parsi Delicacy

“Long time…no see”(should I be saying that or just to feel good)… "I am hoping all of you missed me” :). Here’s an interesting shot at “Part 2” or the “Return of Yourstastefully”.

I am sure you guys will like it…we, at home can’t stop feeling proud of this simple…yet a scintillating dish that I am now sharing. 

Patra ni Macchi, a Parsi signature dish is the dish for the day…Literally translates to "fish wrapped in a leaf". It’s fish covered in green chutney, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection (can be baked too). Simple, healthy (excellent when you are on diet) and perfect for fish lovers. It's succulent and full of flavour.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Serves: 2-3

You need: 

5 slices of white pomfret (you can use salmon or seer)

1 large banana leaf washed thoroughly, central spine removed and then cut into 6 pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
salt
juice of half a lemon

For the chutney:

4tbsp fresh grated coconut
3 green chillies
8 garlic pods
1 cup fresh coriander leaves
a few sprigs of mint leaves (if you like the flavour)
juice of half a lemon
1 tsp cumin seeds
salt as required

Step-by-step: 

Clean the fish slices and rub it with lemon juice and salt
Make small gashes on the fish for the chutney to seep in well. Keep aside for 10minutes 

Grind the ingredients for the chutney into a coarse paste (lick your fingers…. you know it’s going to be yummm!) 

Rub the chutney generously all over the fish (keep some chutney aside)
Let it marinate in the fridge (not the freezer) for at least 3 hours 

Pat dry the banana leaf pieces and smear lightly with oil on the smooth side. Place one piece of fish in the center of each piece of leaf, add more chutney (remember you kept some aside) 

Wrap into a neat parcel. Pierce both ends with toothpicks (you may even tie it up with a thread)
Repeat the same process for each of the fish slices 

When you are ready to eat, arrange the fish parcels on a steamer and steam it for 25 -30 minutes 

You know the fish is done when the banana leaves have changed colour 

Place each piece in the center of a plate and serve hot (the experience of unwrapping the parcel itself is lovely and it tastes divine too!)

Dig in with a mixed vegetable salad or steamed rice…Enjoi your guilt free fish!

Yours Tastefully!