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Phulkopir paturi is basically cauliflower living its best life, steamed and spiced in a cozy banana leaf wrap, and this phulkopir paturi recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Bengali flavors.
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Start by cutting 1 medium-sized cauliflower into bite-sized florets and blanching them in salted water for a couple of minutes until they're slightly tender but still firm.
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Drain and pat them dry because no one wants soggy phulkopir paturi.
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In a mixing bowl, toss the florets with a pinch of salt, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes to get them all seasoned up.
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Heat 1 tbsp mustard oil in a pan until it's shimmering (that mustardy aroma is everything) and add 1/2 tsp nigella seeds (kalonji) to sizzle for a few seconds.
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Throw in 1 chopped onion, 3-4 chopped garlic cloves, 1-2 chopped green chilies, and saut until the onions are soft and fragrant.
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Add 1/2 tsp cumin powder, 2 tbsp fresh grated coconut, and a handful of chopped coriander leaves and stems, stirring everything together for a minute.
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Mix the saut ed spice blend with the seasoned cauliflower until the florets are coated in this flavorful goodness.
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Cut banana leaves into squares, lightly warm them over a flame to make them pliable, and place a portion of the cauliflower mixture in the center of each leaf.
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Fold the leaves into neat parcels, securing them with a toothpick or string, and steam the parcels for about 10-15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and infused with all the spice magic.
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Carefully unwrap the parcels, garnish with more chopped coriander, and serve hot with steamed rice for a traditional Bengali treat.
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This recipe of phulkopir paturi is a flavor bomb wrapped in a leaf—delicate, earthy, and totally worth the effort!