Fried tilapia is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal. Tilapia is a mild-flavored fish that is versatile and cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice for frying. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to achieve crispy and flavorful fried tilapia using simple ingredients and techniques.
Ingredients for Perfectly Fried Tilapia
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for serving
How to Make Perfectly Fried Tilapia
Step 1: Prepare the Tilapia Fillets
- Start by rinsing the tilapia fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help the breading adhere to the fish.
- Season the fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Tilapia Fillets
- Dredge each tilapia fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the fillet into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Press the fillet into the breadcrumbs, making sure it is evenly coated. Repeat with the remaining fillets.
Step 4: Fry the Tilapia
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the breaded tilapia fillets in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve the Fried Tilapia
- Serve the fried tilapia hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Tilapia
Tilapia is a mild-flavored freshwater fish that is widely popular for its versatility and affordability. It is low in fat and calories but high in protein, making it a healthy choice for a variety of diets. Tilapia is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. Its mild flavor makes it a great canvas for a variety of seasonings and cooking methods, including frying.
Flour
All-purpose flour is used in the breading for the tilapia fillets. It helps to create a crispy crust when fried and adds a light coating to the fish. The flour is seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Eggs and Milk
The egg and milk mixture serves as a binder for the breading, helping it to adhere to the tilapia fillets. It also adds richness and moisture to the fish, ensuring that it stays tender and juicy during frying.
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs provide the crispy coating for the fried tilapia. They can be seasoned with herbs and spices for added flavor and texture. Panko breadcrumbs, in particular, are known for their light and crispy texture, making them a popular choice for breading fish and other fried foods.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is used for frying the tilapia fillets. It has a high smoke point, which makes it suitable for frying at high temperatures without burning. It also has a neutral flavor, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through.
Lemon Wedges and Tartar Sauce
Lemon wedges are a classic accompaniment to fried fish, providing a bright and citrusy contrast to the rich and crispy tilapia. Tartar sauce, a creamy condiment made with mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and herbs, adds a tangy and savory element to the dish.
By following this recipe, you can create perfectly fried tilapia that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve it with lemon wedges and tartar sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
