Basa Fish, Something New!

A Fish and a Sponge...

I was in my favorite Asian market to pick up some plaintains and black eyed peas and got sucked in by an offering of a free sample of basa fish.  Basa fish? What is that?!  I had never heard of it but it tasted really good and I bought some.  I think you should buy some too because it was just lovely and a nice change from the usual line up.

Wisegeek.com states, "Known for its mild taste and white, flaky meat, the basa fish is beginning to challenge other sorts of catfish around the world as the preferred food catfish. The method of raising the catfish in the Mekong River has helped it create a following among those who like fish. Most feel the basa fish has a "cleaner" taste than most other forms of farm-raised fish, because of new water constantly flowing in to their pens."

I made it the same way the woman in the store made it with just 3 ingredients, 5 including the oil and the fish itself but you know what I mean.  Here it is.

Pan Fried Basa Fish
2 lbs of Basa Fish
Garlic Salt
Ground Black Pepper
Tempura Powder
Oil for frying
Season fish with garlic salt and black pepper, lightly coat with tempura powder and fry in a hot skillet with about 1/4 cup of vegetable or canola oil. Fry on both sides approximately 4 minutes per sides and enjoy!  I didn't put any sauce or hot sauce or anything on this. It was good as is.  I was really skeptical in the market when the woman said she only used garlic salt and pepper. You can fry one piece and taste it and see if you would want more or less of the garlic salt and pepper if you're not sure how much to use.  I just sprinkled both sides and it worked out well.

These aren't the prettiest pieces that I planned to photograph. Those got gobbled up by two hungry ballerinas straight out of the pan.  I know, I know, blot the excess oil. My daughter took these out of the pan so it was either these or nothing.

Meet my new dishwashing assistant! I found this sponge at Ross and thought it was just too cute.  It has caused one of my daughter to continually volunteer to wash dishes.  I think she has a crush!



Here is the packaging it came in and here is the link to buy it online if you don't have a store near you.  http://www.amazon.co.uk/Paladone-Disco-King-Washing-Sponge/dp/B005J33HRG