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Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Crispy Fish Tacos

These Crispy Fish Tacos are loaded with golden, seasoned fish and topped with a fresh, tangy cilantro lime slaw. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, they’re perfect for a fun weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fish:

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

For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:

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

For Assembly:

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Optional toppings: avocado, diced tomatoes, Cotija cheese, or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

  • In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour buttermilk into another bowl.
  • Dip each fish fillet in buttermilk, let excess drip off, then coat in the flour mixture.

2. Cook the Fish:

  • Heat ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Once hot, fry fish for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Slaw:

  • In a bowl, combine cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, mayo, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss well.

4. Assemble Tacos:

  • Warm tortillas (in a dry skillet or microwave).
  • Add a piece of crispy fish to each tortilla.
  • Top with slaw and optional toppings.

5. Serve:

  • Serve immediately with lime wedges for extra zest!

Notes

✔ Baking Option: Bake breaded fish at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 mins, flipping halfway.
✔ Air Fryer Option: Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 8-10 mins, flipping once.
✔ Extra Crispy? Double-dip fish in buttermilk and flour for a thicker crust.
✔ No Buttermilk? Use milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.

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