Embark on a culinary journey to Southeast Asia with this delectable dish of fish steamed in banana leaves. This traditional recipe, commonly found in countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, tantalizes the taste buds with its aromatic blend of herbs and spices infused into tender fish fillets. Wrapped in banana leaves, the fish is gently steamed, resulting in a moist and succulent texture that harmonizes perfectly with the vibrant flavors of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Alongside the main recipe, this article also presents variations using different types of fish, such as salmon, tilapia, and sea bass, ensuring that every seafood lover can find their perfect match. Additionally, a vegetarian rendition of the dish is included, featuring tofu as the protein source, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary adventures, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to create an authentic and flavorful fish steamed in banana leaves, leaving your taste buds craving more.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
BOMBAY FISH STEAMED IN BANANA LEAVES
Steps:
- Make sauce:
- Mince garlic and, wearing protective gloves, mince serranos. In a blender purée all sauce ingredients until smooth.
- If using banana leaves, cut away ribs and in a large bowl of hot water soften leaves 1 minute to help keep them from splitting. Cut six 8-inch squares from leaves. On a work surface arrange 1 leaf square and pat dry. Spread 1 teaspoon herb sauce down middle of square to equal length of a piece of fish and arrange piece, skin side down, on sauce. Spread 1 tablespoon sauce over piece. Fold top and bottom edges of leaf over piece and fold sides of leaf over piece, enclosing it. Arrange packet, seam sides down, in a bamboo steamer or on a large steamer rack. Make 5 more packets in same manner and arrange in steamer or on rack.
- Steam packets over boiling water, covered, until fish is just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Serve fish immediately.
STEAMED FISH WITH SPICED RUB IN BANANA LEAF
Provided by Food Network
Yield 2 servings
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Cut the fish into 6 pieces, about 3-inch rectangles, and season with salt and pepper. Thoroughly mix the coconut milk, sliced onion, turmeric, paprika, curry powder, ginger, garlic, chile, and fish sauce together. Add the fish pieces, mix well, and marinate for 15 minutes. Fold two sides to 1-inch height each, and fold the comers on the other ends to meet in the center. This will make a point at both ends. Fold these points down twice and secure with a toothpick, creating a small pocket. Place 4 ounces of vegetables into the pocket. Place the fish over it, finishing with a few slices of Thai chile on top. Steam the pockets for 7 minutes. Serve immediately and garnish with scallions.
HALIBUT OR OTHER FISH STEAMED IN BANANA LEAVES
Steps:
- Put at least 2 inches of water in the bottom of a steamer. Soak the banana leaves in hot water until soft, just a few seconds.
- Toss together the fish, garlic, ginger, nam pla, sugar, and cayenne. Put a piece of the seasoned fish in the center of each of the banana leaves and top with shallot, cilantro, and a light sprinkling of salt. Fold in the sides of the leaves and seal shut with toothpicks or skewers.
- Steam for about 15 minutes, or until the fish is done (peek into one of the packages to check). Be careful of the steaming liquid when removing the packages. Remove each of the fish pieces from its package before serving and spoon some of the juices over it.
- Lemongrass Halibut (or Other Fish) Steamed in Banana Leaves
- In step 2, toss the fish with 1 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons minced lemongrass, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, and the nam pla and sugar. Put it in the packages as directed and top with the shallots, 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives or scallion, and 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, preferably Thai basil. Seal and steam as directed.
FISH STEAMED IN BANANA LEAVES
Make and share this Fish steamed in Banana leaves recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Girl from India
Categories Asian
Time 1h20m
Yield 12 fillets
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Add the chilli powder, turmeric, salt, sugar, mustard oil and green chillies to the fillets.
- Mix well to coat evenly.
- (Don't be afraid to use your hands.) Marinate fish for 20-30 mins.
- Now add the ground mustard and immediately wrap each fillet with a little extra marinade on top into individual pouches with the banana leaf.
- Steam for 20 mins in a steamer.
- Enjoy.
Tips:
- Choose the Right Fish: Opt for firm-fleshed fish like salmon, cod, or tilapia that can withstand the steaming process without falling apart.
- Prep the Banana Leaves: Soften the banana leaves by passing them over an open flame or dipping them in hot water. This makes them pliable and prevents them from cracking during steaming.
- Season the Fish: Enhance the fish's flavor with a flavorful marinade or rub. Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs work well, or you can use more elaborate marinades with citrus, ginger, or soy sauce.
- Wrap the Fish Properly: Place the seasoned fish in the center of the softened banana leaf. Fold the leaf over the fish, ensuring it's completely enclosed to create a tight seal. Secure the banana leaf with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Steam the Fish: Prepare a steamer with enough water to generate steam. Place the wrapped fish parcels in the steamer and steam for the recommended time, which varies depending on the thickness of the fish and the type of steamer used.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the fish is cooked, carefully unwrap the banana leaves and transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, citrus slices, or a drizzle of flavorful sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice, vegetables, or a tangy dipping sauce.
Conclusion:
Steaming fish in banana leaves is a delightful culinary technique that imparts a unique flavor and aroma to the dish. This traditional method of cooking preserves the fish's natural moisture and nutrients, resulting in tender, succulent fish that melts in your mouth. With the tips and guidelines provided, you can master this cooking technique and enjoy delicious, healthy steamed fish wrapped in the goodness of banana leaves. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your steamer, and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Happy cooking!
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