Striped Bass with Lime Broth

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon cracked cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon Thai green curry paste
• 4 sprigs cilantro, stems and leaves separated
• 2 kaffir lime leaves or 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1/3 cup (or more) fresh lime juice
• Kosher salt
• 1 grapefruit
• 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 6-ounce striped bass fillets or snapper, John Dory, or black bass fillets, halved if long and narrow
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh mint and basil leaves, extra-virgin olive oil, and flaky sea salt (such as Maldon; for serving)
• Ingredient info: Thai green curry paste is available at Asian markets and in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.

Method

1. 01Toast coriander, cardamom, and curry paste in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring, until spices are fragrant and curry paste begins to caramelize, about 2 minutes. Add cilantro stems, kaffir lime leaves, fish sauce, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently until flavors meld, 8-10 minutes.
2. 02Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large heatproof measuring cup; discard solids. Let cool, then stir in lime juice; season with kosher salt and more lime juice, if desired.
3. 03Meanwhile, using a sharp knife, cut all peel and white pith from grapefruit; discard. Working over a small bowl, cut between membranes to release segments into bowl; discard membranes. Repeat with lime.
4. 04Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season fish with salt and pepper. Cook fillets, skin side down, 1 minute, then firmly press down with a fish spatula to ensure even browning and crispiness. Continue cooking until skin is golden brown and fish is mostly cooked through, about 4 minutes; carefully turn fish and sauté until just cooked through, about 1 minute longer.
5. 05Divide lime broth and fish among shallow bowls. Scatter citrus segments, cilantro leaves, and mint and basil over; drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt.
6. 06DO AHEAD: Broth can be made 1 day ahead (do not add lime juice). Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature and add lime juice just before serving.