Dimer Paturi
A classic Bengali delicacy where hard-boiled eggs are slathered in a pungent, spicy paste of mustard and coconut, then wrapped in banana leaves and gently steamed or pan-fried. The leaves impart a subtle smoky aroma, making this a truly unique and flavorful dish.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preparation (15 minutes)
- b.In a small bowl, soak the black mustard seeds, yellow mustard seeds, and poppy seeds in warm water for 15 minutes. This helps reduce bitterness and makes grinding easier.
- c.While the seeds soak, wash the banana leaf squares and pat them dry. Gently run each leaf square over a low open flame for 10-15 seconds until it turns a darker shade of green. This makes them pliable and prevents tearing during folding.
- d.Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Mustard Paste (5 minutes)
- b.Drain the soaked seeds and transfer them to a grinder jar.
- c.Add the grated coconut, 2 green chilies, and a pinch of salt. Grind to a thick, smooth paste, adding 1-2 tablespoons of water only if necessary to facilitate grinding.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Marinade (2 minutes)
- b.Transfer the ground paste to a mixing bowl.
- c.Add the whisked curd, turmeric powder, remaining salt, and 3 tablespoons of mustard oil.
- d.Mix everything thoroughly to form a thick, uniform marinade.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Paturi Parcels (3 minutes)
- b.Take one prepared banana leaf square. Spread a tablespoon of the mustard marinade in the center.
- c.Place two egg halves, cut-side down, over the paste.
- d.Top the eggs with another tablespoon of marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
- e.Place half a slit green chili on top and drizzle with a few drops of the remaining mustard oil.
- f.Fold the banana leaf from all four sides to create a neat, sealed rectangular parcel. You can secure it with a cotton thread if needed. Repeat for all four parcels.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cook the Paturi (15 minutes)
- b.Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of mustard oil in a non-stick pan or tawa over a low to medium-low heat.
- c.Carefully place the wrapped parcels in the pan, seam-side down. Cover and cook for 7-8 minutes.
- d.Gently flip the parcels and cook for another 7-8 minutes on the other side, until the banana leaf is nicely charred and aromatic.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve (1 minute)
- b.Remove the parcels from the pan and let them rest for a minute.
- c.Serve the Dimer Paturi hot, directly in their parcels. They are best enjoyed with steamed white rice, unwrapping the parcel just before eating.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For an authentic pungent flavor, use cold-pressed mustard oil.
- 2Do not overwarm the banana leaves, as they can become brittle. A few seconds over a flame is sufficient.
- 3If the mustard paste tastes too bitter, you can add a little extra coconut or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
- 4Ensure the pan is not too hot when you place the parcels, as this can burn the leaves before the inside is cooked.
- 5If you don't have both types of mustard seeds, you can use only black or only yellow, but the combination provides a balanced pungency.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the eggs with thick slices of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to make Paneer Paturi. Marinate and cook in the same way.
SeafoodSeafood
This recipe is famously made with fish. Use fillets of Bhetki (Barramundi) or Hilsa to make a traditional Macher Paturi.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies in the paste or add a pinch of red chili powder to the marinade for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Turmeric contains curcumin, and mustard seeds contain compounds like selenium, both of which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Dimer Paturi can be a healthy dish. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein. Mustard oil provides healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The dish is steamed or shallow-fried, which is a healthier cooking method than deep-frying. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.