When it comes to cooking fish, many people struggle with achieving that perfect crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. But with basa fish, this task becomes even more challenging due to its delicate flaky texture. However, with the right techniques and seasonings, you can easily transform your basa fish into a flavorful and crispy masterpiece.
In this article, we will explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of basa fish in different cuisines. From spicy curries to refreshing ceviches, and from crispy tacos to decadent pies, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire you to get creative with your cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of the most delicious and innovative ways to cook basa fish. We’ll start with classic recipes like garlic butter basa with lemon herb sauce, pan-seared basa with garlic and chilli, and baked basa with parmesan and herb crust. Then, we’ll explore more international flavors such as Thai-style steamed basa with lime and basil, blackened basa fish with Cajun spices, and Vietnamese caramelized basa fish.
Stay tuned for our comprehensive list of 20 crispy basa fish recipes that will take your cooking to the next level!
Garlic Butter Basa with Lemon Herb Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender basa fillets smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served with a bright and zesty lemon herb accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Lemon Herb Sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ 1/4 cup olive oil
+ 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tsp Dijon mustard
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season basa fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Place basa fillets in the sauce; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine Lemon Herb Sauce ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve basa with lemon herb sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Basa Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
A twist on traditional fish tacos, this recipe combines the flaky white fish of Basa with crispy breading and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 Basa fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sour cream (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each Basa fillet in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the coated fish in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Place the fried fish on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Mango Salsa, tortillas, and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Basa Fish Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the tender basa fish with a rich coconut milk-based sauce, infused with spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb basa fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook until they start to flake apart, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pan-Seared Basa with Garlic and Chilli
Sear a flavorful and aromatic basa fillet to perfection, infused with the pungency of garlic and the heat of chilli.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fillets (about 120g each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-2 green chillies, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basa fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and swirl it around.
4. Place the basa fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from the pan and set aside.
7. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, and sliced chillies.
8. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
9. Serve the basa fillets with the garlic and chilli mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Basa Fish and Sweet Potato Cakes
A delightful twist on traditional fish cakes, this recipe combines the tender flavor of Basa fish with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Basa fish, flaked
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flaked fish, mashed sweet potatoes, chopped onion, beaten egg, lemon juice, and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat about 1/8 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Fry cakes for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch.
Baked Basa with Parmesan and Herb Crust
This classic Italian-inspired dish is elevated by a crispy, cheesy crust infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bassa fillets (or other white fish), skin removed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the bassa fillets with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish fillets, then coat each fillet in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated bassa on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai-Style Steamed Basa with Lime and Basil
This refreshing dish is a twist on traditional steamed fish, infused with the bright flavors of Thailand. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fillets (or other mild white fish)
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, garlic, and basil leaves.
3. Place the fish fillets in a steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Drizzle the lime-basil mixture evenly over the fish, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional lime wedges and basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Blackened Basa Fish with Cajun Spices
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional blackening, this recipe combines the richness of basa fish with the bold flavors of Cajun spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the basa fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the fish fillets.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basa Fish Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
Quickly cooked Basa fish paired with fragrant garlic and ginger, this dish is a flavorful and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb Basa fish fillets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the Basa fish pieces; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of water. Pour the mixture over the fish; stir to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Basa with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilled fish game with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines the flaky goodness of basa with the tangy zip of chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Season basa fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill basa for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve each fillet with a dollop of chimichurri sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Basa Fish Soup with Lemongrass and Tomatoes
This aromatic soup is a popular dish from Southeast Asia, where the sweetness of basa fish pairs perfectly with the tanginess of lemongrass and tomatoes. With this simple recipe, you can recreate the flavors of this exotic cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound basa fish (or substitute with cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lemongrass, tomatoes, fish, water, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Basa Fish Burgers with Avocado Mayo
A twist on traditional burgers, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of basa fish with the creamy richness of avocado mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 basa fish fillets (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each basa fish fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook the fish patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix mashed avocado with mayonnaise in a bowl.
6. Assemble the burgers by spreading avocado mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a cooked basa fish patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and top bun.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basa Fish Ceviche with Lime and Coriander
Discover the vibrant flavors of India’s southern coast with this refreshing Basa fish ceviche, marinated in a zesty lime and coriander mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Basa fish (or similar white fish), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces, lime juice, coriander leaves, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (marinating time)
Air-Fryer Basa Fish Fillets with Panko Crust
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of crispy and tender with this simple recipe for air-fryer basa fish fillets with panko crust. This Asian-inspired dish is a great way to enjoy fish without feeling guilty about the calories!
Ingredients:
– 4 Basa fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat air-fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated fish fillets in a single layer in the air-fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or garnish with chopped scallions or parsley.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Braised Basa in Tomato and Olive Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty braised basa dish, slow-cooked in a tangy tomato and olive sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb basa fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add basa pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes, olives, wine, broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Garlic Basa with Mushrooms
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of creamy garlic sauce, tender mushrooms, and al dente basa.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz basa pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook basa pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked basa pasta with creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basa Fish Pie with Parmesan Mash
A twist on the classic fish pie, this recipe combines flaky basa fish with a rich parmesan mash for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the fish pie:
– 1 lb basa fish fillets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
For the parmesan mash:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix together fish, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Place the fish mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Brush with milk and make a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
9. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Caramelized Basa Fish
This sweet and savory dish is a popular Vietnamese street food, where basa fish (also known as catfish) is caramelized to perfection with a rich mixture of sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb basa fish fillet, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish pieces and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, combine sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a deep amber color and caramelizes, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cooked fish back into the pan and stir to coat with the caramelized sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basa Fish Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Transforming basa fish into a flavorful and aromatic dish is easy with this simple recipe. Experience the perfect blend of Southeast Asian flavors with our Basa Fish Skewers and creamy Peanut Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound basa fish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Thread fish pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush skewers with the Peanut Sauce, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Basa Bake with Olives and Feta
A hearty, flavorful bake that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine – rich, buttery basa, savory olives, and tangy feta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb basa (or cod), skin removed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Place the basa in the dish, leaving a small border around it.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic and olives evenly over the top.
5. Crumble feta cheese over the olives.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the basa is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of basa fish. From classic dishes like pan-seared basa with garlic and chilli to international-inspired meals such as Thai-style steamed basa with lime and basil, these crispy basa fish recipes offer a flavorful journey around the world. With options for tacos, curries, burgers, and more, you’ll find inspiration for quick weeknight dinners or special occasion meals.
