Macadamia Crusted Barramundi
An elegant and sophisticated Australian dish featuring flaky barramundi fillets coated in a crunchy, buttery macadamia nut crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a refined weeknight meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 x 180g Barramundi fillets(Ensure fillets are skin-on for best results, or skinless if preferred. Pat them very dry before seasoning.)
- 150g Raw macadamia nuts(Unsalted and raw, not roasted.)
- 50g Panko breadcrumbs(Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.)
- 50g Unsalted butter(Melted.)
- 1 large lemon Lemon zest(Zest from the entire lemon, avoiding the white pith.)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard(Acts as a binder for the crust.)
- To taste Sea salt
- To taste Freshly ground black pepper
- For serving Lemon wedges
- Optional, for garnish Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the macadamia crust: In a food processor, pulse the macadamia nuts until they are coarsely chopped, resembling small pebbles. Be careful not to over-process into a paste. Transfer the chopped nuts to a medium bowl. Add the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and lemon zest. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is evenly moistened.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Prepare the fish: Pat the barramundi fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for the crust to adhere and for the fish to sear properly. Season both sides of the fillets generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Apply the binder: Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer of Dijon mustard over the top surface of each barramundi fillet. Ensure the entire top is coated, as this will help the macadamia crust stick.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Crust the fish: Gently press a generous amount of the macadamia nut mixture onto the mustard-coated top of each fillet. Ensure the crust adheres well and covers the surface evenly. You can lightly pat it down to help it stick.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Cook the fish: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the crusted fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the macadamia crust is golden brown and crisp. Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
⏱️ 12-15 minutes - 6
Serve: Carefully remove the fish from the oven. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed greens or a light salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For the best crust texture, avoid over-processing the macadamia nuts; aim for a coarse, crumbly consistency.
- ✓The Dijon mustard not only adds a subtle tang but also acts as a crucial adhesive, ensuring the macadamia crust sticks firmly to the fish.
- ✓This dish is elegant enough for fine dining but achievable for a home cook. Consider serving with a side of roasted asparagus or a creamy risotto.
- ✓Ensure the oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature for optimal cooking and browning.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute barramundi with other firm white fish like snapper, cod, or even salmon fillets.
- Incorporate finely chopped lemon myrtle leaves into the macadamia crust mixture for an authentic Australian native flavour.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the crust mixture for a hint of spice.
- For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or melted coconut oil instead of butter.