When I find a dish I like at a restaurant, I have a hard time not ordering it when I go back. I know I should try new things, but when I do, even if I love what I ordered, I miss having my favorite. One of those is the Hawaiian Crunch Halibut at The Sandpiper restaurant in Pocatello. It is one of the most delicious and satisfying dishes I’ve had, and I know people come from miles away just to enjoy it. It combines a crunchy nutty crust, with a mellow and moist fish, and topped off with a sauce that is creamy and flavorful. With most things, I try to make my favorite dishes at home, but this one has been a challenge, especially since I refuse to make anything too complex. I think I’ve been able to create a simple and delicious dish that satisfies my craving for my Sandpiper favorite… at least until I can get a reservation.
Belle’s Nut Crusted Halibut
4 halibut fillets
½ cup flour
2 eggs, beaten until frothy
½ cup nuts, crushed (you can use macadamias, pecans or pistachios)
½ cup butter crackers, crushed
¼ cup oil
Place the flour on a plate, place the beaten eggs in a shallow pan, and mix together the nuts and crackers, and place on another plate. Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet to medium heat. Dredge the fillets in the flour, then the egg, and then the nuts. Fry in the oil until crust is golden brown and fish flakes easily- about 8-10 minutes on each side. Spoon some of the lemon sauce over each fillet before serving.
Lemon sauce
¼ cup mayo
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
Milk
In a bowl, whisk all ingredients except for the milk. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
