Pan Fried Basa Fillet With Cilantro-Walnut Pesto

Basa is a firm white fish, popular in South-east Asia and commonly available in North America. As it has a firm texture, it is ideal for pan frying and does not break easily. If using frozen, the fish needs to thaw for a few hours in the refrigerator and then patted dry completely before frying. Fried basa can be served with salad or some quinoa or rice on the side. 
Servings: 2 yield(s)
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Ingredients
    Pan Fried Basa Fillets
  • 2 basa fillets
  • 1 tsp. chilli powder
  • 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper powder
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
    • Cilantro-Walnut Pesto
  • 2 cups chopped (including stems)
  • 1/3 cup walnuts
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 3 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • a little salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
    Pan Fried Basa Fillets
  1. Clean fish fillets, pat them dry with paper towels and keep aside.
  2. Combine all the spices and coat the filets on both sides.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and place the fillets in the pan. Fry for about 3 or 4 minutes and then flip and fry for a couple of minutes until the fish is cooked.
  4. Remove on a serving plate and drizzle with lemon juice.
    5. Cilantro-Walnut Pesto
  5. Add all the ingredients except oil to a food processor. Pulse well.
  6. While the processor is on, slowly add in the extra virgin olive oil. Pulse to a smooth consistency , scraping down the sides with a spatula
  7. Check for seasonings and serve as desired.