The Best Fried Fish Ever
Juicy, flavorful fried fish with a hint of Tabasco spice, perfect for those who enjoy a mildly hot and savory seafood dish with a crispy exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Ziploc bag, place fish fillets and add Tabasco sauce according to the amount of fish.
- Use enough Tabasco sauce to see it visibly on the fish. Marinate overnight.
- Remove the fish from the marinade; do not drain off the sauce.
- Batter the fish as you normally would and fry as usual.
- Contrary to belief, the fish is not spicy hot, but has a delicious flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider using a mix of spices like paprika or garlic powder in the batter. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Tabasco sauce or use a different hot sauce. Ensure the fish fillets are patted dry before marinating to help the sauce adhere better. This recipe can also work well with shrimp for a delightful variation, similar to Billy'S Shrimp And Crawfish Etouffe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried fish hot with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw or a fresh salad for a light meal. Consider serving it alongside tartar sauce or a spicy aioli for dipping. This dish also complements well with rice or cornmeal-based sides, like Corn Meal Fried Catfish, for a complete seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain the crispiness without overcooking the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Fried Fish Ever contains roughly 3 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but it's best to thaw them completely before marinating. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the Tabasco sauce adhere better. This ensures a more flavorful and crisp result when frying.
What type of fish works best for frying?
White fish varieties like cod, tilapia, or haddock are excellent choices for frying due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. However, you can also experiment with other fish types or even shrimp for a delicious alternative.
How can I make the batter extra crispy?
To achieve an extra crispy batter, consider adding a bit of cornstarch or baking powder to your flour mixture. This can help create a lighter texture. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish, as this prevents the batter from absorbing too much oil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).