King Fish Grill/Pollichathu | Banana Leaf Fish Fry

King Fish Grill/Pollichathu | Banana Leaf Fish Fry Magic

For those who love bold coastal flavors, King Fish Grill, also known as King Fish Pollichathu, offers the perfect balance of spice, aroma, and smokiness. Wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection, this traditional fish preparation is a timeless favourite along the Malabar and Travancore coasts of Kerala.

What is King Fish Grill/Pollichathu?

Pollichathu refers to the unique South Indian method of cooking where marinated fish is wrapped in banana leaves and either grilled or pan-fried. In this version, meaty slices of king fish (seer fish or “neymeen”) are smothered in a fiery masala, sealed in banana leaves, and gently cooked to retain juices and infuse flavor. The result is an aromatic and moist fish fry with a charred, smoky edge.

Why Banana Leaf Cooking Enhances Flavor

Banana leaf isn’t just a cooking wrap. It adds subtle earthiness and retains moisture while preventing the fish from drying out. The leaf holds the masala close to the fish while gently infusing a herbal aroma during grilling. This natural steaming method locks in spices without compromising on texture or taste, making it healthier and more flavorful than deep-frying.

Ideal for Traditional and Modern Menus

Though rooted in tradition, King Fish Grill in banana leaf fits seamlessly into modern diets. It’s protein-rich, low-carb, and made with minimal oil. The king fish’s firm texture holds up well to grilling, making it ideal for those looking for healthy yet indulgent seafood options.

Experience the Essence of Kerala

From the smoky fragrance of banana leaf to the spice-kissed surface of the fish, every element of this dish celebrates Kerala’s rich coastal cuisine. Banana Leaf Fish Fry is not just a dish—it’s an experience that takes you straight to the heart of a traditional Kerala kitchen.

King Fish Grill/Pollichathu | Banana Leaf Fish Fry

King Fish Grill, also known as King Fish Pollichathu, offers the perfect balance of spice, aroma, and smokiness. Wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection, this traditional fish preparation is a timeless favourite along the Malabar and Travancore coasts of Kerala.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course sea food, Side Dish

Cuisine Kerala

Servings 1 Person

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

For 1st Masala:

• 4 Pieces Kingfish Cut into round shaped thin pieces
• ½ Tsp Pepper powder
• 1 Tbsp Red chilli powder
• 1 Tbsp Ginger Crushed
• ½ Tsp Turmeric powder
• ½ Tsp Fenugreek powder Uluva
• Yoghurt As reqd
• Curry leaves As reqd
• 1 cup Coconut oil For Frying
• Salt to taste

For 2nd Masala:

• 1 No. Onion Sliced lengthwise
• 1 No. Tomato Sliced lengthwise
• 2 Nos Green chilli
• 1 Pinch Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder
• 1 Pinch Salt

Instructions

 

• For preparing the delicious fish fry, first clean the fish pieces.
• Smear them with yogurt to get rid of fishy smell.
• Mix well all other ingredients for the 1st masala except coconut oil and marinate the fish. Keep aside at least for 2 hours.
• After 2 hours, fry the fish in coconut oil or grill it.
• Next, refer the ingredients for preparing 2nd Masala. Sauté chopped Onion, Tomato and Green chillis.
• When it turns golden brown, add Red Chilli Powder and Salt.
• Spread this masala either on a plantain leaf or aluminum foil and place the fried fish on it. Fold the banana leaf with the fish masala tucked in.
• It may either be grilled or baked in a pan without oil.
• King Fish Grill/Pollichathu | Banana Leaf Fish Fry is ready.

Notes

You can visit this link Fish Fry with Green Masala. You can also visit this link Fish Biriyani.

Keyword Banana Leaf Fish Fry, King Fish Grill/Pollichathu

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!