Coconut-Almond Crusted Tilapia with Tropical Sweets & Reds Mash

We really like coconut around here (even the little ones), so I played around with some coconut milk and shredded unsweetened coconut and came up with this. This little combo knocked our socks off.

Let’s start with the fish. First a nice soak in coconut milk & lemon, then a light almond-meal-coconut-ginger-mint coating, and finally a quick fry in some coconut oil. Yes, coconut oil. Don’t freak out. Coconut oil, despite its reputation for the last 20 years, is actually good for you, and is my go-to frying oil if the slight coconut flavor it imparts compliments the food — in this case, yes.

The potatoes were a last minute decision. I wasn’t planning on putting coconut milk in them (I usually use milk or buttermilk), but I had half of a can left and thought, “what the heck.” I’m glad I do that sometimes. Acting on a gutsy instinct pays off more often than not. The addition of sweet potatoes gave it a nice sweetness that played off of the coconut milk, tricking you into thinking that there may have been sugar added. But there wasn’t. Sneaky, indeed.

Some bonus points with this one: both recipes are dairy-free and grain-free.  I believe this whole meal was paleo, too. (I’d have to check. I’m not sure what the stance on white potatoes is. Pretty much all potatoes are out, but sweet potatoes are OK once in a while. This would be good with all sweets, too!) Are you familiar with paleo nutrition? It’s based on the theory that our ancient ancestors were far healthier than we are, eating only what was available to them — fresh organic meat, fish, fruits, nuts and vegetables. Essentially it’s a grain and dairy-free diet, and there’s a lot of great research supporting its contribution to a healthy lifestyle. My good friend Jessie recently started a blog called The Cavewoman’s Kitchen where she shares paleo recipes and a great explanation of the Paleo diet. She’s a true cavewoman. And super strong.

My husband is eyeball-deep in paleo nutrition, and we’ve gradually been heading that direction as a family for the past three years. Very gradually. I went completely paleo for almost a month last year, and I loved how it made me feel. But, I also love cheese. LOVE cheese. And pizza crust. And ice cream. I try to be picky about the grains, dairy, and sugar I consume, and maybe I’ll get to the point in my life where I’m willing to let those go completely. I just can’t do it right now.

Do any of you have experience with a paleo diet? Thoughts?

Anyway. The fish and spuds are great. :)

Gluten-Free, Main Dish Seafood, Paleo/Primal, Perry's Plate Originals

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