Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw

At the core of any great taco is the quality of the ingredients used. Freshness plays an essential role in enhancing flavors and ensuring a satisfying meal. Zesty Crispy Fish Tacos thrive on the vibrant interplay of fresh fish, crunchy vegetables, and zesty sauces that come together to create a harmonious dish. Each component contributes to the overall experience, making this meal versatile enough for casual family dinners, festive gatherings, or even a quick weeknight treat.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Crispy Fish Tacos with Rainbow Slaw, a must-try recipe for taco enthusiasts! Experience the perfect balance of crispy, seasoned fish and a zesty, crunchy slaw that delights the senses. Ideal for any casual gathering, these tacos highlight the importance of fresh ingredients and offer endless versatility. Learn how to master the art of breading the fish, prepare a colorful slaw, and elevate your taco game with delicious sauces and toppings! Enjoy this sensory feast that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

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Ingredients

For the Fish:

1 lb white fish fillets (choose from cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 large eggs, beaten until frothy

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola preferred)

For the Rainbow Slaw:

2 cups green cabbage, shredded finely

1 cup purple cabbage, shredded finely

1 cup carrots, grated (use a box grater or food processor)

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 avocado, diced into small cubes

Juice of 2 limes (freshly squeezed is best)

2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (for sweetness)

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tacos:

8 small flour or corn tortillas

Lime wedges, for serving

Thinly sliced radishes, for garnish (optional)

Additional cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Slaw:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped cilantro.

- In a separate small bowl, vigorously whisk together the lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), salt, and pepper until well blended.

- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Set the mixture aside to marinate, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Prepare the Fish:

- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then slice them into strips approximately 1-2 inches wide.

- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create the seasoning mix.

- In another bowl, beat the two eggs until frothy and combined.

- Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl, ready for the final coating.

Breading the Fish:

- For each fish strip, follow the breading process: first, coat in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then, dip into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coverage for maximum crunch.

Fry the Fish:

- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and brown quickly.

- Carefully add the breaded fish strips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried fish and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt immediately for flavor.

Assemble the Tacos:

- Warm the tortillas by briefly heating them in a dry skillet or microwaving them until pliable and warm.

- On each tortilla, lay down a generous portion of the vibrant rainbow slaw, followed by several crispy fish pieces.

- Top with diced avocado, extra cilantro, and a spritz of fresh lime juice for added zing.

Serve:

- Present the tacos with lime wedges and sliced radishes on the side for a pop of color and added crunch. Gather everyone around and enjoy your delicious, vibrant fish tacos!

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Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4