How to Make the Perfect Crispy Fish Tacos
Mexican · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
Golden fried cod tucked into warm tortillas with crunchy slaw and creamy lime sauce. These tacos are fresh, bold, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Crispy Fish Tacos recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 10 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lb cod fillets cut into strips
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 8 pieces small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 2 pieces limes juiced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Lime Crema
In a small bowl whisk together sour cream and lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and set aside in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl combine flour smoked paprika and garlic powder. Slowly whisk in sparkling water until a smooth thin batter forms. Do not over mix.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Dip cod strips into batter letting excess drip off then fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Place tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side until warmed and slightly charred.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Layer each tortilla with shredded cabbage crispy fish strips and a generous drizzle of lime crema. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- cod → tilapia or mahi mahi
- sour cream → Greek yogurt
- corn tortillas → flour tortillas
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using batter that is too thick which makes the coating heavy and doughy
- Overcrowding the pan which lowers oil temperature and makes fish soggy
- Skipping the paper towel drain step which leaves tacos greasy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 28g protein, 38g carbs, 16g fat, 3g fiber.
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