Save to Pinterest Golden, crispy fish fillets nestled in warm tortillas, topped with a vibrant cabbage slaw and creamy sauce—perfect for a fresh and flavorful meal.
The first time I made these crispy fish tacos, my family couldn't stop raving about how the crunchy fish paired perfectly with the tangy slaw. They're now a favorite for taco nights when we want something a little different.
Ingredients
- White fish fillets: 450 g (1 lb), such as cod, tilapia, or haddock
- All-purpose flour: 75 g (1/2 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Panko breadcrumbs: 120 g (1 cup)
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for fish, plus to taste for slaw
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Green cabbage: 200 g (2 cups), shredded
- Red cabbage: 50 g (1/2 cup), shredded
- Carrot: 1 medium, julienned
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp for slaw, 3 tbsp for sauce (optional)
- Plain Greek yogurt: 2 tbsp
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp for slaw, 1 tbsp for sauce (optional)
- Honey: 1/2 tsp
- Small corn or flour tortillas: 8, warmed
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Lime wedges: for serving
- Hot sauce: 1 tsp for sauce (optional)
- Garlic powder (for sauce): 1/4 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the slaw:
- In a large bowl, combine green and red cabbage, carrot, and cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, toss well, and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Set up breading station:
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare fish:
- Pat fish fillets dry and cut into strips (about 2.5 x 8 cm / 1 x 3 inches).
- Bread the fish pieces:
- Dredge each fish strip in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the seasoned panko.
- Fry the fish:
- Heat about 1 cm (1/2 inch) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fish strips in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Make creamy sauce (optional):
- Whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
- Assemble the tacos:
- Place a few pieces of crispy fish in each tortilla. Top with slaw, avocado slices, and a drizzle of creamy sauce. Serve with lime wedges.
Save to Pinterest We love making these tacos for casual family gatherings—the fun part is everyone assembling their own. Kids especially like picking their favorite toppings and squeezing on extra lime.
Serving Suggestions
Pickled onions, jalapeños, or extra cilantro make great additions on top. Pair your crispy fish tacos with a simple side salad or a bowl of chips and salsa for a complete meal.
Allergen Information
These tacos contain fish, eggs, wheat (gluten), and dairy (in slaw and sauce, can be substituted). Be sure to check ingredient labels if you are cooking for someone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
For two tacos (one serving): 490 calories, 22 g total fat, 47 g carbohydrates, 26 g protein. Nutritional values may vary based on brand and portion size.
Save to Pinterest Serve your crispy fish tacos right away for the best crunch and freshness. Enjoy every bite of the vibrant flavors and textural contrast!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of fish works best for the dish?
White fish such as cod, tilapia, or haddock provide a flaky texture and mild flavor ideal for coating and frying.
- → Can the fish be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking at 220°C (425°F) for 12-15 minutes yields a lighter alternative while keeping the coating crisp.
- → How is the slaw dressed for optimal flavor?
The slaw is tossed in a blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to balance tanginess with sweetness.
- → What alternative breadcrumbs can be used?
Gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace panko if needed without sacrificing crunch.
- → How do you maintain crispiness when assembling the dish?
Drain fried fish on paper towels to remove excess oil, and assemble just before serving to keep textures crisp and fresh.
- → What beverages pair well with this meal?
Crisp lagers or citrusy white wines complement the vibrant, fresh flavors perfectly.