Mojarra en Hoja de Plátano
A flavorful whole fish, typically Mojarra, marinated and steamed inside banana leaves, infusing it with aromatic herbs and spices. This method keeps the fish incredibly moist and tender, highlighting its natural flavors with a subtle tropical essence.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized Whole Mojarra fish(cleaned and scaled, about 1 lb each)
- 4 large Banana leaves(wilted over flame or hot water)
- 1 medium Onion(thinly sliced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(any color, thinly sliced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 0.5 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 3 tbsp Lime juice
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 Optional: Jalapeño or serrano pepper(thinly sliced, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the banana leaves by gently wilting them over an open flame or dipping them in hot water. This makes them pliable and prevents tearing. Cut them into large enough pieces to wrap each fish.
- 2
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade. If using, add the sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper.
- 3
Score the sides of each fish a few times. Rub the marinade all over and inside the cavity of each fish. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes.
- 4
Lay out two pieces of banana leaf, overlapping them slightly, to form a base. Place one marinated fish on top. Layer slices of onion, bell pepper, and tomato over and inside the fish. If using, add a few slices of chili pepper.
- 5
Carefully wrap the banana leaves around the fish and vegetables, creating a sealed packet. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.
- 6
You can steam the fish packets in a large pot with a steamer basket over simmering water for 30-40 minutes, or bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for the same amount of time. The fish should be opaque and flake easily.
- 7
Carefully unwrap the banana leaf packets. Serve the fish immediately, with the steamed vegetables and juices from the packet.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the banana leaves are well-wilted to avoid tearing during wrapping.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish; it should remain moist.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like thinly sliced zucchini or carrots inside the banana leaf.
- A splash of white wine or fish stock can be added to the packet before sealing for extra moisture.