A visit to the Farmer’s Market on the weekend is somewhat of a habit I developed back when I lived in Santa Monica. I mean who can resist an organic market packed with delightful California fruits and veggies steps from the ocean?!. These days, however, I venture to our year-round market in Raleigh and it is just as exciting.
On the way back, I asked the kids what they wanted for lunch and they unanimously replied: “Popcorn fish”. Great I thought, these are super easy and fast, coupled with a salad and fruits will keep their little tummies happy.
Popcorn Sea Bass
Batter
1/4 cup brown rice flour
3 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
3 tbsp sweet rice flour
1 tbsp golden flax meal
1 tbsp apple fiber (if not available replace with 1/2 tsp agave)
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp ginger powder
1/8 tsp garlic powder
Pepper to taste
2/3 to 1/2 cup filtered water
Place all ingredients in a bowl with the exception of the coconut. Whisk 2/3 cup of water until blended, add the rest if needed to yield a thick batter. Add coconut just before usage otherwise it absorbs all the moisture and makes the batter too thick. If that happens, just add a little more water. By preventing the coconut shreds from absorbing so much water, they will crisp up and offer more crunch.
To prepare the sea bass. Cut a 1/2 lb filet into bite size pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then drop in the batter. Heat about a 1/2 inch of grape seed oil in a pan on medium heat. When oil is ready, carefully place the pieces in the oil using chopsticks or your fingers. Fry briefly on one side, then turn. Remove to a paper towel lined plate.
Serve with tartar sauce or any of your favorite sauces.
This batter works well with chicken as well as asparagus and zucchini.