Striped Bass with Lime Broth

Ingredients

• 4 servings pepper black freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon cardamom pods 
• 4 sprigs cilantro leaves separated
• 2 tablespoons coriander seeds 
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 
• 1  grapefruit 
• 4 servings kosher salt 
• 1  lime 
• 0.3 cup juice of lime fresh ()
• 2  lime zest finely grated
• 1 leaves olive oil extra virgin fresh extra-virgin for serving (such as Maldon; )
• 24 ounce bass fillets black halved
• 1 teaspoon curry paste green
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 

Equipment

• bowl
• frying pan
• sauce pan
• knife
• sieve
• spatula
• measuring cup

Directions

1. Toast 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.
2. 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.
3. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large heatproof measuring cup; discard solids.
4. Let cool, then stir in lime juice; season with kosher salt and more lime juice, if desired.
5. Meanwhile, 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.
6. Heat 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.
7. Divide 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.
8. DO 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.