Steamed Cod In Banana Leaf

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Heat 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add 2 teaspoons of mustard seeds and let them crackle for about 30 seconds.

2. Step 2.

   Add the finely chopped red onions to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until they are golden and sticky.

3. Step 3.

   Rub 2 large pinches of dried curry leaves between your hands to break them up, then scatter over the onions. Add 2 teaspoons of garam masala, the juice of 1 lemon, and a good pinch of salt. Mix well and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Step 4.

   Spoon a heaped tablespoon of the cooked onion mixture onto the center of a banana leaf (or baking parchment). Use the back of the spoon to spread it into a shape just wide enough for a cod fillet.

5. Step 5.

   Place a skinned cod fillet on top of the onion mixture, then spread another heaped tablespoon of the onion mixture over the fish. Top with a fresh curry leaf.

6. Step 6.

   Wrap the fish in the banana leaf like a parcel, tucking in the sides, and secure the top with a cocktail stick. Repeat with the remaining cod fillets and banana leaves.

7. Step 7.

   Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to any leftover onion mixture in the frying pan and heat over low-medium heat. Place the fish parcels in the pan and cook for 16–18 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and tender.

8. Step 8.

   Serve immediately, still wrapped in the banana leaf, to preserve the juices.