Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves

Elevate your seafood game with the fragrant and healthy Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves, a dish that brings tropical elegance right to your table. Perfectly tender white fish fillets—like tilapia or snapper—are infused with the exotic flavors of coconut milk, lime, turmeric, and fresh ginger, then wrapped in naturally aromatic banana leaves for a stunning presentation. The parcels gently steam, locking in moisture and seasoning, while the leaves impart a subtle earthiness to every juicy bite. Simple yet sophisticated, this 20-minute prep recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve with fluffy steamed rice or a crisp green salad to complement this low-fat, nutrient-packed dish. Experience the magic of banana leaf-steamed fish, perfect for lovers of healthy and globally inspired cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large pieces Banana leaves
• 4 fillets White fish fillets (such as tilapia, snapper, or cod)
• 0.5 cup Coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Lime juice
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves
• 1 inch piece Fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 3 tablespoons Fresh cilantro
• 1 Red chili (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 4 Cooking twine or toothpicks

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the banana leaves under warm water and pat them dry. If the leaves are stiff, briefly pass them over an open flame to make them more pliable.

Step 2

Prepare the marinade by blending garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, lime juice, coconut milk, cilantro, red chili (if using), salt, and black pepper into a smooth paste.

Step 3

Place each fish fillet on a banana leaf and spread a generous amount of the marinade over the fish, coating both sides.

Step 4

Carefully wrap the banana leaf around the fish, folding it into a neat parcel. Secure it with cooking twine or toothpicks.

Step 5

Set up a steamer or use a large pot with a steaming rack. Fill the bottom of the pot with water and heat it until boiling.

Step 6

Arrange the banana leaf parcels in the steamer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cover with a lid.

Step 7

Steam the fish for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 8

Carefully remove the fish parcels from the steamer and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Step 9

Serve the fish directly in the banana leaf for a lovely presentation. Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1274.9 grams (1274.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	699

Total Fat 10.30g	13%
Saturated Fat 2.70g	14%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 300mg	100%
Sodium 2762mg	120%
Total Carbohydrate 28.80g	10%
Dietary Fiber 3.80g	14%
Total Sugars 12.20g
Protein 127.70g	255%

Vitamin D 1200IU	6000%
Calcium 153mg	12%
Iron 6mg	33%
Potassium 3077mg	65%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 12.9%

Protein: 71.1%

Carbs: 16.0%