Tilapia... White Chocolate Macadamia Crusted Tilapia

Timothy J Higgins Eva's Note:

Although not normally a fish fan, a friend decided to try this Red Lobster menu item last year after reading its description. As it turns out this dish won a Food Network Challange which is why it was being showcased. After being tempted by the description of white chocolate, toasted macadmia nuts and coconut, and a smooth sweet sauce, it was a must try. Needless to say it was a huge hit and after trying it myself I am a true believer too. If you want a great fish dish that is as captivating and delightness as a great dessert too... this is the recipe for you.

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

FOR MACADAMIA CRUST

• 1⁄3; cup chopped macadamia nuts
• 1⁄3; cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 1⁄3; cup panko
• 4 tablespoons melted butter

FOR WHITE CHOCOLATE SAUCE

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
• ¼ cup white wine
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup shaved white chocolate (use real white chocolate only, not white baking chips )
• kosher salt

FOR TILAPIA PREP

• 4 tilapia fillets
• sea salt
• paprika
• fresh ground black pepper
• 1 cup coconut milk (or Coco Lopez)

Directions:

1. 1, FOR MACADAMIA CRUST: Mix all of first 4 crust ingredients well.
2. 2. Spread crust out on to a baking sheet.
3. 3. Bake in a 300°F oven for approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. 4. FOR WHITE CHOCOLATE SAUCE: In a small non-reactive sauce pan add the shallot, wine and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer until liquid has reduced by 2/3.
5. 5. In another saucepan add the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and reduce by 1/3.
6. 6, While liquids are reducing, cut the butter into small pieces.
7. 7. Once liquids are reduced, remove from heat and strain the shallot lemon mixture and add it to the heavy cream.
8. 8.Keeping the pan warm, slowly add 2-3 pieces of the butter to the lemon cream mixture while continually whisking. Continue to whisk while adding remaining butter.
9. 9. Next whisk in the white chocolate until fully incorporated.
10. 10. TILAPIA PREP: Spray a baking dish with non stick spray.
11. 11. Place 4 tilapia fillets flesh side up.
12. 12. Season filets with sea salt, pepper and paprika.
13. 13. Brush Coconut Milk or Coco Lopez over the top of each fish filet.
14. 14. Bake the prepared fish in a 350°F oven for approximately 10-15 minutes or until fish reaches 150°F internally.
15. 15. PRESENTATION: Portion the chocolate sauce onto 4 plates.
16. 16. Place the cooked fish on top of the chocolate sauce.
17. 17. Top each filet with the macadamia topping. Enjoy!

Reviews

[Chef #278940]

I made this for my daughters brides maids and the compliments were incredible. I am making it again fro easter.

[SuzV]

We enjoyed this-- thanks for sharing the recipe. Made this for Valentines Day and am keeping it on file for another special occasion dinner.

[Chef Coco Nut]

I was a little worried about mixing shallot and chocolate... but it was very good! I greased the pan with coconut oil instead of spray. I was pleasantly suprised how good this was, not too too sweet or salty and masked the fish taste well without overwhelming it. Will make again. Thank you for posting!