“Bhapa Ilish” means Steamed Hilsa where “Bhapa” depicts for Steaming. Traditionally Bengali ladies used to steam their Hilsa in a “Stainless Steel Tiffin Box” while making their rice in a Handi (Hari) and that process is the ideal process of making Bhapa Ilish. Though Bhapa Ilish can be steamed in a Vessel or in a Pressure Cooker and even in Microwave.
The fish is steamed in a spicy paste of mustard, yogurt and hot green peppers.