Description
Crispy, golden fish tucked into warm tortillas and topped with a zesty cilantro lime slaw, creating a deliciously crunchy and refreshing taco experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cilantro Lime Slaw (see below for ingredients)
- Taco shells (soft or hard)
Cilantro Lime Slaw ingredients
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by selecting fresh fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia, renowned for their mild flavor. Cut the fillets into bite-sized pieces; this prevents the fish from becoming too overwhelming in your delicious tacos. The smaller size helps it cook evenly and makes for delightful bites.
In a bowl, zest and juice a lime, then combine it with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. This marinade is key to infusing your fish with vibrant flavors that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Place your fish pieces in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let it soak for at least 20 minutes while you prepare the other components.
As your fish marinates, it’s time to whip up the refreshing cilantro lime slaw. Shred some cabbage and toss it into a large mixing bowl. Add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of sugar. The sweetness will balance the tanginess of the lime. Mix well and set aside in the refrigerator so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and cornmeal, which will deliver that signature crunch! Add a bit of salt and pepper for extra flavor. This coating will form a crispy exterior that contrasts enticingly with the tender fish inside. After your fish has marinated, take each piece and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated fish pieces in the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. The sizzling sound is music to your ears, and the aroma will have everyone in the kitchen eager for a taste!
Now comes the fun part: assembling your tacos! Grab your favorite tortillas and warm them briefly in the pan or microwave. Lay down the crispy fish, top with the cilantro lime slaw, and add a drizzle of additional lime juice for that extra zing. Personalize your tacos with avocado slices or a splash of hot sauce if you wish!
Notes
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover fish, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheating in the oven can help regain some of that delicious crispiness.
Experiment with Fish Varieties
Don’t shy away from experimenting! Other flaky fish such as haddock or snapper may also work well for your Crunchy Fish Tacos. Play around until you find your perfect match.
Seasoning Adjustments
Feel free to tweak the seasoning in the slaw or marinade to suit your taste. Perhaps you want more heat—consider adding jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes