Crispy Pescado Frito

Crispy Pescado Frito: A Tex-Mex Delight That’ll Hook You Line and Sinker!

Get ready to reel in a crowd-pleaser with this irresistible Pescado Frito recipe! This Tex-Mex favorite combines the flaky tenderness of white fish with a golden, crispy exterior that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to make a splash at your next dinner party.

As you prepare this mouthwatering meal, your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of seasoned fish sizzling to perfection. The satisfying crunch of each bite gives way to succulent, flavorful fish that’s sure to transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Gulf Coast. Plus, with both traditional frying and air fryer options, you can choose the method that best suits your culinary style.

Pescado Frito has long been a staple in both Texas and Mexican cuisine, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with a zesty pico de gallo and a cold cerveza for the ultimate Tex-Mex experience that’ll have you saying “¡Delicioso!” after every bite.

Crispy Pescado Frito Recipe

Ingredients:

4 tilapia, whole (preferred, see notes)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs beaten

1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

2. Beat the eggs in a separate shallow dish.

3. Pat the whole tilapias dry with paper towels.

4. Dip each tilapia in the flour mixture, then the egg, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.

5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

6. Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Remove the tilapia and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

8. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.

3. Place the coated tilapias in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.

4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Notes:

• For a lighter version, use whole wheat flour or cornmeal for coating.
• Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
• Leftover fish can be flaked and used in fish tacos the next day.
• This dish can be prepared with fillets if whole fish are not available in your area.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 whole tilapia

Calories: 350

Total Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Cholesterol: 115mg

Sodium: 450mg

Carbohydrates: 20g

Protein: 28g

Fiber: 1g

Other Information

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10-15 minutes

Equipment: Skillet or air fryer, shallow dishes for coating

Estimated cost per serving: $2.50

Total cost: $10.00

In Conclusion, Crispy Pescado Frito

In conclusion, Pescado Frito is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the best of Texan and Mexican culinary traditions. With its crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you choose to fry it traditionally or use an air fryer for a healthier twist, Pescado Frito is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Find more coastal food recipes here.

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