Description
This easy recipe transforms white fish into a crispy, flavorful family dinner in under 20 minutes, featuring a smoky paprika panko crust paired with a tangy lime crema.
Ingredients
- 600g (1.3 lbs) firm white fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia
- 60g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 120g (2 cups) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 60ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil, for frying
- 120g (1/2 cup) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 small lime, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets very dry with paper towels. Season lightly with half of the salt and pepper. Set up three dredging stations: flour in dish 1, beaten eggs in dish 2, and the panko mixture in dish 3.
- Season the Panko: In dish 3, combine the panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and remaining salt and pepper. Mix well to distribute spices evenly.
- Bread the Fillets: Dredge each fillet first in the flour (shaking off excess), then dip in the egg wash, then press firmly into the seasoned panko mixture on both sides to create a thick crust.
- Pan-Fry the Fish: Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place 2 fillets in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, crispy, and the fish flakes easily. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Make the Lime Crema: While the fish cooks, combine the sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime zest and juice, chopped cilantro, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the cooked fish to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately, drizzled generously with the Zesty Lime Crema.
Notes
To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure the fish fillets are completely dry before dredging. Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, airier crust compared to standard breadcrumbs. Cook the fish in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pan and dropping the oil temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg