Meen Pollichathu Recipe is a traditional dish from the southern Indian state of Kerala, which features fish fillets that are marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted on a pan until cooked to perfection. The fish used for this recipe is typically firm, white fish such as kingfish or pomfret. The fish is marinated with a blend of spices including turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and black pepper powder, which gives it a flavorful and aromatic taste. The stuffing for Meen Pollichathu consists of sautéed onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, grated coconut, and fennel seeds. The mixture is added on top of the marinated fish before it is wrapped in banana leaves. The banana leaves not only add to the flavor of the dish but also help to keep the fish moist while cooking. Meen Pollichathu is typically cooked on a pan over low heat, which allows the fish to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the stuffing. The banana leaves give the dish a unique flavor and aroma and add to the visual appeal of the dish. Meen Pollichathu is often served as a main course with steamed rice or appam (a type of pancake made from fermented rice batter). The dish is a favorite among seafood lovers and is a perfect example of the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Kerala.

Here’s a recipe for a simple and delicious Meen Pollichathu Recipe

Meen Pollichathu Recipe Steps, Ingredients and Nutrition

Meen Pollichathu Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp. tandoori paste
  • 1 tbsp. ginger paste
  • 1 tbsp. garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp. turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp. ground coriander
  • Vegetable oil, for brushing

Read also: Lamb Shank Roganjosh Recipe

Meen Pollichathu Recipe Steps

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tandoori paste, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, turmeric powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly brush the foil with vegetable oil.
  5. Place the chicken thighs on the baking sheet, skin-side up, and brush them with a little more oil.
  6. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crisp and golden brown.
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Serve the tandoori chicken hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!
  9. You can adjust the spiciness of the chicken by adding more or less cayenne pepper, and you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of chicken thighs if you prefer.

Meen Pollichathu Recipe Nutrition

Here is the approximate nutrition information per serving for Meen Pollichathu Recipe:

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 37g

Note that the nutrition information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Meen Pollichathu is a healthy and nutritious dish that is a great source of protein and healthy fats. However, it is relatively high in saturated fat due to the use of coconut oil and grated coconut. Therefore, it is recommended to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Meen Pollichathu Recipe is a delicious and aromatic dish that is a staple in the cuisine of the Indian state of Kerala. This dish is made with fish fillets that are marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted on a pan until cooked to perfection. The stuffing of the dish is made of sautéed onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, grated coconut, and fennel seeds. Meen Pollichathu is a healthy and nutritious dish that is a great source of protein and healthy fats, but it is recommended to enjoy this dish in moderation due to its relatively high saturated fat content. Overall, Meen Pollichathu is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood and wants to explore the rich and diverse culinary traditions of India.