Mocha Chingri is a traditional Bengali recipe that beautifully combines banana flower (mocha) with fresh shrimps and grated coconut, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish that pairs best with hot steamed rice. This iconic Bengali delicacy is not only packed with nutrition but also offers a rustic taste of Bengal’s heritage. Known for its unique preparation, the banana flower is first cleaned, steamed, and chopped, then cooked with prawns, potatoes, and spices to bring out rich flavors.
Cooking Time and Serving
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2
Ingredients for Mocha Chingri
- 1 banana flower, cleaned, steamed, and chopped
- 1 large potato, cubed
- 100 gm fresh shrimps
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 3-4 cloves
- ½ stick cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 Tbsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1-2 green chillies
- Salt as required
- Mustard oil for cooking
Method – How to Prepare Mocha Chingri
- Clean shrimps and marinate lightly with salt and turmeric powder. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes and keep aside.
- Fry the cubed potatoes until golden and keep aside.
- Heat mustard oil in a pan and temper with cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, and green chillies.
- Add grated coconut and sauté for about 5 minutes until aromatic.
- Add chopped banana flower along with turmeric and cook until oil begins to separate.
- Mix in fried potatoes, season with salt, and add a little water. Cover and cook for 7–8 minutes until tender.
- Add shrimps, stir everything together, and cook for 1 more minute.
- Serve hot with steamed rice. Optionally, drizzle a spoon of ghee on top for enhanced flavor.
This classic Mocha Chingri recipe captures the soul of Bengali cuisine with its earthy ingredients and bold flavors. Perfect for festive meals or a weekend lunch, it’s a dish every food lover must try.