Fried Fish: Crispy Tradition and Unmatched Flavor

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Fried Fish

1. Clean the fish well, removing scales, bones, and guts

2. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture

3. Season with salt, pepper, lemon, and your preferred spices

4. Coat the fish in flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumbs depending on your desired texture

5. Heat enough oil in a skillet or fryer to 170–180 °C (338–356 °F)

6. Fry the fish until both sides are golden and crispy, careful not to crowd the pan

7. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil

8. Serve hot with fresh sides

Tricks for Extra Crispy Fish

• Maintain a consistent oil temperature

• Avoid moving the fish too much—let a crust form

• Use corn flour for a more rustic crunch

• Marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes before frying

• Add a pinch of baking soda or a splash of beer to the flour mix for a more airy crust

Perfect Side Dishes with Fried Fish

Fried fish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• French fries or mashed potatoes

• White or coconut rice

• Fresh salads with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and avocado

• Fried plantains or tostones (in Caribbean versions)

• Sauces such as tartar, aioli, chimichurri, or garlic mayo

Each combination adds freshness and complements the fish’s crispiness.

International Variations of Fried Fish

• Spain: “pescaíto frito” served in paper cones

• England: “fish and chips,” with fries and vinegar

• Japan: “tempura,” fried in a light batter of flour and ice-cold water

• Caribbean: whole fish seasoned with garlic, citrus, and tropical spices

• Mexico: fish tacos with fried fish, tortillas, and spicy salsa

• Southeast Asia: served with sweet-sour and aromatic dipping sauces

These variations highlight the dish’s versatility across the world.

How to Make Fried Fish Healthier

Even though frying, there are ways to minimize the calorie impact:

• Use good-quality vegetable oils

• Drain excess fat using paper towels

• Try an air fryer for a lighter version

• Bake breaded fish in the oven as an alternative

• Pair with fresh salads and avoid heavy, oily sauces

Common Mistakes When Frying Fish

To avoid less-than-ideal results, keep these in mind:

• Cold oil: leads to greasy fish

• Overheated oil: burns the outside before the inside cooks

• Not drying the fish: causes splattering and soggy texture

• Overcrowding the pan: lowers oil temperature and ruins the crisp

Fried Fish in Traditions and Celebrations

In many cultures, fried fish is more than a dish—it’s tradition. During Holy Week (Semana Santa), it’s the star in many Spanish-speaking countries. At family gatherings, it’s often the centerpiece to share. Even at beaches and local fairs, it’s one of the most sought-after foods for its flavor and convenience.