Rasoi Buddy
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Meen Pollichathu

Meen Pollichathu

Images on Rasoi Buddy are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact appearance of the final dish.

Meen Pollichathu is a legendary seafood delicacy from the backwaters of Kerala, traditionally prepared in a banana leaf. This recipe features a whole fish, typically Karimeen (Pearl Spot), coated in a thick, fiery masala paste of shallots, red chilies, and ginger. The fish is wrapped in a wilted banana leaf and pan-grilled until the flavors infuse deeply and the meat becomes smoky and succulent. Its taste is intensely spicy and tangy, with a unique earthy aroma from the steamed leaf. This dish is a celebrated specialty of Kerala houseboats and is best enjoyed with steamed red rice.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Servings2 People
DifficultyHard
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Ingredients

2 Whole Pearl Spot (Karimeen) or Pomfret
10 Shallots, finely chopped
1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic paste
2 Tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tbsp Red chili powder
1 tsp Turmeric powder
1 tbsp Tamarind pulp
2 Banana Leaves
3 tbsp Coconut Oil
Curry leaves
Salt to taste
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Cooking Instructions

Tips & Secrets

  • Wilting the banana leaf over fire is the secret to preventing it from tearing while wrapping.
  • Using small onions (shallots) instead of regular onions is crucial for the authentic Kerala flavor.
  • Coconut oil is the soul of this dish; do not substitute it with any other cooking oil.
  • Grilling slowly on low heat ensures the smoky aroma from the leaf permeates the fish meat.

Nutritional Information(Per 250g)

Calories

310 kcal

Protein

22g

Fat

20g

Carbs

10g

Note: Nutritional values are professional estimates per standard serving (~200-250g / ml) and may vary based on ingredient quality and preparation methods.