Chingri Bhapa Mustard Coconut Steamed Prawn

Method

1. 1

   Make the mustard-coconut paste: Drain soaked mustard seeds. Grind in a mixer with fresh grated coconut, 2 green chilli, turmeric and salt. Add 3 tbsp water. Grind 4 minutes to a very smooth, silky, pale yellow paste. Add 2 tbsp mustard oil to the paste. Mix.

2. 2

   Marinate the prawns: Combine prawns with the mustard-coconut paste. Toss well so every prawn is completely coated. Rest 15 minutes.

3. 3

   Soften banana leaves: Pass banana leaf pieces over a medium flame for 5 seconds per side. They will soften and turn a brighter green.

4. 4

   Assemble each parcel: Place a portion of marinated prawns in the centre of each banana leaf. Place 1 slit green chilli on top. Drizzle 1/4 tsp raw mustard oil over the prawns.

5. 5

   Wrap securely: Fold banana leaf over the prawns. Fold the sides under firmly. The parcel must be tight — no gaps. Secure with a toothpick.

6. 6

   Steam the parcels: Fill a steamer with water. Bring to a boil. Place parcels on the steamer tray. Cover tightly.

7. 7

   Steam for 10 to 12 minutes: Steam on medium-high for 10 to 12 minutes. Prawns cook quickly — do not overcook or they become rubbery.

8. 8

   Test one parcel: Open one carefully. The prawns should be pink throughout and the paste should look cooked and set.

9. 9

   Serve in the leaf: Bring parcels to the table. Open at the table for the fragrance release.

10. 10

    Serve with steamed rice: The mustard paste that has condensed around the prawns in the leaf is the sauce — spoon it over rice.

11. 11

    Note: Chingri Bhapa (steamed prawn) is specifically different from the earlier batch's Chingri Bhapa Steamed Prawn Mustard — this version includes fresh coconut in the paste which changes the character from sharp and pungent to a balance of sharp and creamy. The coconut-mustard paste is a combination found specifically in the cooking of the coastal and riverine communities of South Bengal where both coconut trees and mustard grow abundantly. The banana leaf steaming imparts a clean green fragrance.