Roasted Sea Bass with Daikon

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with sea salt and black pepper, allowing the seasoning to sit for 5 minutes.

   Tip: Drying the fish ensures a crispy skin when pan-seared.

2. 2

   Toss the daikon batons in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until they begin to soften and develop light golden edges.

   Tip: Daikon becomes tender and slightly sweet when roasted.

3. 3

   While the daikon roasts, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

   Tip: An oven-safe skillet allows you to transfer seamlessly from stovetop to oven.

4. 4

   Place the sea bass fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes without moving them, until the skin turns golden and crispy.

   Tip: Resist the urge to move the fish; this creates the desired crust.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced ginger, and vegetable broth to create the glaze.

   Tip: Prepare the glaze while the fish sears for efficient timing.

6. 6

   Transfer the skillet with the fish to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

   Tip: Cooking time depends on fillet thickness; check for doneness at 8 minutes.

7. 7

   Remove the skillet from the oven and carefully pour the glaze around the fish and daikon. Scatter the sliced garlic and scallions over everything.

   Tip: Pour the glaze around rather than over the fish to preserve the crispy skin.

8. 8

   Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes to allow the garlic to soften slightly and the glaze to warm through.

9. 9

   Plate by dividing the roasted daikon among four dishes, topping each with a sea bass fillet, then spoon the pan glaze and aromatics over the top.

   Tip: Serve immediately while the fish is still warm and the glaze is glossy.