Crispy Fish Tacos

These Crispy Fish Tacos are packed with crunchy, seasoned fish and topped with a tangy cilantro lime slaw. They’re quick to make and bursting with fresh flavors, making them perfect for taco night or a casual meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Flavorful: Golden, crunchy fish paired with zesty slaw.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
• Fresh & Tangy: Cilantro lime slaw adds a refreshing twist.
• Customizable: Use your favorite white fish and tortillas.
• Perfect for Taco Night: A fun and delicious meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crispy Fish:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:

• 2 cups cabbage (green or purple), shredded
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• ½ tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• Lime wedges

Directions

Prepare the Slaw:

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the fish.

Prepare the Fish:

1. Set Up Dredging Station: In one bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Fish: Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, then dredge in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coating.
3. Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the Fish: Fry the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Tacos:

1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
2. Place crispy fish in each tortilla, then top with the cilantro lime slaw.
3. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Creamy Sauce: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt in the slaw.
• Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the fish at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
• Taco Bowl: Serve over rice instead of tortillas for a lower-carb option.
• Avocado Addition: Add sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover fish and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the fish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to keep it crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the fish soggy.
• Freezing: Fried fish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQs

What is the best fish for fish tacos?

Mild white fish like cod, tilapia, or halibut works best for crispy fish tacos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

How do I keep the fish crispy?

Serve immediately after frying, and avoid covering with slaw until ready to eat.

Can I air-fry the fish instead of deep-frying?

Yes! Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

What other toppings go well with these tacos?

Pico de gallo, sliced jalapeños, cotija cheese, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo are great additions.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry completely before coating and frying.

How can I make the slaw dairy-free?

Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas?

Toast them in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds.

Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?

Yes! The slaw can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

Are these tacos kid-friendly?

Yes! Reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder version, and kids will love the crispy fish.

Conclusion

Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are the perfect blend of crunch, zest, and freshness. Whether it’s for taco night or a quick meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a delicious, homemade seafood feast!

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