Authentic Misa Mach Poora: Traditional Grilled Fish Recipe from Assam, India

Ingredients

2 Whole white pomfret fish
1 tablespoon turmeric
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons mustard oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 banana leaf
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped tomatoes
4 chopped green chilies
6 cloves of garlic
1 inch piece of ginger
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander seeds

Steps and instructions

Clean the fish thoroughly and make slits on both sides.
Rub the fish with salt, turmeric, mustard oil, and lemon juice, then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
While the fish is marinating, prepare a paste by grinding together the onions, tomatoes, green chilies, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds. Add a little water if necessary to make a smooth paste.
Heat a pan with mustard oil, and when the oil is hot, add the ground paste. Cook on a medium flame until the raw smell goes away.
Add the marinated fish to the pan and cook on each side for about 5 minutes. Be careful not to break the fish while flipping.
While the fish is cooking, heat the banana leaf over the flame until it becomes soft and pliable.
Wrap the cooked fish in the banana leaf and secure with a string. Cook on a grill or a hot tava, turning it once to ensure it is cooked evenly on both sides.
Once done, unwrap the fish from the banana leaf and serve hot with rice.

Tools for making

Grinder - To grind the spices and make a smooth paste.
Pan - To cook the ground paste and fry the fish.
Tongs - To flip the fish while cooking.
Banana Leaf - To wrap and cook the fish, adding a unique flavor.
String - To secure the wrapped fish while cooking.
Grill or Tava - To cook the wrapped fish evenly.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of fish, such as sea bass or snapper, instead of pomfret.
Try using different spices or marinades, such as a mix of garam masala, red chili powder, and coriander powder.
Experiment with different cooking methods, such as baking or grilling the fish instead of pan-frying.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the dish for added flavor and texture.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the fish with tofu or paneer and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Instead of using a banana leaf, wrap the fish in parchment paper or aluminum foil before cooking.
Add a twist by incorporating coconut milk or tamarind pulp to the marinade or sauce for a unique flavor profile.
For a gluten-free option, replace the regular flour with rice flour or chickpea flour for coating the fish.

Recipe overview

Misa Mach Poora is an exquisite fish recipe from the North-Eastern part of India. This recipe is especially loved in Assam where it is often made during special occasions and family gatherings. It involves marinating a whole white pomfret fish in a blend of spices, wrapping it in a banana leaf, and then grilling it to perfection. The result is a dish that is delicately flavored, slightly spicy, and satisfyingly smoky. The textures in this recipe are wonderful too, with the fish being soft and juicy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. The key to this recipe is the fresh ingredients used, from the fish to the spices, and the banana leaf that adds a unique aroma to the dish. Prepare to be enchanted by this simple yet flavorful dish that is a true representation of Assam's rich culinary heritage.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of fish? - Yes, you can use other types of white fish such as tilapia or snapper as a substitute for pomfret.
Can I skip marinating the fish? - Marinating the fish helps to enhance the flavor, but if you're in a hurry, you can skip it. However, keep in mind that the taste might not be as rich.
Can I use a different type of oil? - Mustard oil adds a distinct flavor to this recipe, but if you don't have it, you can use any other cooking oil of your choice.
Can I use a different type of leaf for wrapping? - While banana leaf is traditional and imparts a unique aroma, you can use aluminum foil as a substitute if banana leaf is not available.
Can I grill the fish instead of cooking on a tava? - Yes, grilling the fish is a great option. It adds a smoky flavor. Ensure the fish is well-wrapped in the banana leaf or foil to prevent it from sticking to the grill.
Can I adjust the amount of spices? - Yes, you can adjust the spices according to your taste preference. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of green chilies, ginger, or garlic.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill or Tava - A grill or tava is essential for cooking the fish.
Pan - A pan is needed for cooking the ground paste and frying the fish.
Mixer or Blender - A mixer or blender is required for grinding the ingredients to make the paste.
String - A string is needed to secure the wrapped fish in the banana leaf.
Knife - A knife is necessary for cleaning the fish and making slits.
Cutting Board - A cutting board is helpful for chopping onions, tomatoes, green chilies, garlic, and ginger.
Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are useful for taking accurate measurements of turmeric, salt, and lemon juice.
Grinder or Mortar and Pestle - A grinder or mortar and pestle is required for grinding cumin seeds and coriander seeds.
Banana Leaf - A banana leaf is used to wrap the cooked fish, adding flavor and aroma.

Origin stories

Misa Mach Poora, a delectable treat from the northeastern state of Assam in India, is not just a dish but a culinary experience that captures the essence of the region's cuisine. This delicacy is traditionally prepared during Bihu, the harvest festival of Assam, when the fish caught fresh from the mighty Brahmaputra river is marinated with local spices and then wrapped in a banana leaf to be slow-cooked over a woodfire. The use of the banana leaf in the cooking process is a testament to the Assamese people's ingenuity, using resources available in their lush surroundings. The result is a smoky, tender fish dish that, much like the gentle ebb and flow of the Brahmaputra itself, takes you on a flavoursome journey through the heart of Assam.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.