Pecan-Crusted Opakapaka Recipe
Overview
Pecan-Crusted Opakapaka, also known as red snapper in Hawaiian, is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of crunchy pecans with tender fish fillets. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick and flavorful seafood meal, infused with the rich taste of nuts and a hint of seasoning. Despite its name, this preparation is not traditionally Hawaiian, but it certainly brings out the best in this popular fish.
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Fruit, Nuts, < 30 Mins, Stove Top
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 scallion, minced
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for coating)
- 4 opakapaka (red snapper) fillets
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 233.4
- Total Fat: 18.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.4g
- Cholesterol: 53.4mg
- Sodium: 653.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 13.7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1.2g
- Protein: 4.8g
Instructions
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Prepare Ingredients:
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together milk and egg.
- In a third shallow dish, combine minced scallions, chopped pecans, and bread crumbs.
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Coat the Fish:
- Dip each opakapaka fillet first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Next, dip the fillets in the milk and egg mixture.
- Finally, coat the fillets evenly with the pecan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
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Cooking:
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the coated fillets into the skillet.
- Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
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Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the fillets from the skillet and drain briefly on paper towels.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a crispy crust without absorbing excess oil.
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and texture in the crust.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding a pinch more salt or pepper if desired.
Flavor Profile
The pecan crust adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the delicate opakapaka fillets, complemented by the slight sweetness of the pecans. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy seafood with a twist, offering a quick and delicious meal option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Pecan-Crusted Opakapaka is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course for a family dinner or as an impressive centerpiece for a dinner party. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii with this unique and flavorful recipe!