fried fish tilapia recipe

The Best fried fish tilapia recipe

I have been making this fried fish tilapia recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is originally from Africa, where tilapia is a popular fish species.

I like to serve it with a side of vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal. The key to making great fried fish is to use fresh ingredients and to not overcook the fish.

I usually make this recipe on the weekends when we have family gatherings or special occasions. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and watching the fish sizzle in the pan.

The combination of crispy outside and tender inside is just perfect. I’ve also found that this recipe is a great way to get my kids to eat more fish, which is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Tilapia is also low in fat and calories, making it a great choice for health-conscious families like mine. I’ve tried various seasonings and spices over the years, but I find that a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and lemon juice brings out the best flavor in the fish.

This recipe is also easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or herbs, so feel free to experiment and find your own favorite combinations.

Crispy Fried Tilapia

4.6 from 1088 votes

This fried tilapia recipe delivers golden, crispy fish with a tender, flaky interior. Seasoned with a blend of spices and coated in cornmeal, it is a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Fish

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
2 tablespoons milk
Vegetable oil for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
2In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3Season both sides of each fillet with the spice mixture.
4In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal and flour.
5In another shallow bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
6Dip each seasoned fillet first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat evenly with the cornmeal mixture.
7Press gently so the coating adheres.
8Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F.
9Carefully place two fillets in the hot oil without crowding.
10Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
11The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
12Transfer the cooked fillets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
13Repeat with the remaining fillets.
14Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Paper towels
Shallow bowls
Tongs
Plate

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, let the coated fillets rest for 5 minutes before frying. You can substitute cornmeal with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Fried Tilapia Works

This fried fish tilapia recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering with family and friends. It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed, making it ideal for busy households like mine.

For storage, you can keep cooked leftover fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat it by baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Tilapia

Q1: What type of oil should I use for frying?

For this recipe, I recommend using a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or avocado oil. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.

Q2: How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, make sure the pan is hot before adding the fish, and use a small amount of oil to coat the bottom of the pan. You can also dust the fish with a little bit of flour or cornstarch before cooking for extra non-stick properties.

Q3: Can I use frozen tilapia fillets instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets if that’s what’s available in your area. Just thaw them first before using in the recipe.

Q4: How do I know if my fish is cooked through?

Cooked fish should flake easily with a fork. If you’re unsure, you can always cut into one of the fillets to check for doneness.

Q5: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the fish just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

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