Mexico City boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and its take on fried fish is a testament to its rich history and diverse influences. Forget bland, over-breaded disappointments; this recipe delivers the authentic flavors of DF-style fried fish, crispy on the outside and succulent within. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the perfectly golden crust giving way to flaky, juicy white fish, seasoned with a blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. This isn't your average fried fish; it's a culinary adventure.
This recipe captures the essence of a classic street food favorite, elevated for your home kitchen. We’ll guide you through sourcing the perfect fish, preparing the flavorful marinade, and achieving that coveted crispy exterior without the mess. Ready to experience the deliciousness of authentic Mexico City fried fish? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Cup
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Fish fillets
- Salt
- Garlic
- Flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Egg: 1
- Lemon: 1 (for juice)
- Beer
- Cooking oil
- Lettuce
- French fries
- Lemon wedges
- Valentina sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Batter
- Cut fish fillets to your desired size. Season both sides with salt and garlic.
- In a bowl, combine flour, egg, lemon juice, salt, and garlic. Gradually add beer, stirring until the mixture is thick like pancake batter. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Fish
- Heat cooking oil in a frying pan. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Fry until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3. Drain and Serve
- Remove fried fish and place on absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
- Serve the fried fish with a few drops of lemon juice, Valentina sauce (optional), lettuce, French fries, and lemon wedges.
Read more: Crispy Fish Tacos Recipe: Easy Fried Tilapia Tacos
Tips
- If the batter is too thin, add a teaspoon of flour. If it's too thick, add more beer. Adjust to your desired consistency.
- The beer will cook off during frying; the final product won't taste strongly of beer. A beer-free version of this recipe is also available on the YouTube channel.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-50g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. What type of fish is best for this recipe?
White, flaky fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia work exceptionally well. They hold their shape and stay moist while frying.
2. Can I use a different type of oil?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are good substitutes for the traditional oil. Avoid oils with strong flavors that might overpower the fish.
3. How do I ensure the fish is crispy?
Make sure the fish is completely dry before breading and frying. Don't overcrowd the pan, and maintain a consistent oil temperature for even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior.
So there you have it – a delicious and authentic taste of Mexico City, right in your own kitchen. This easy Lenten recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing friends and family alike with its crispy exterior and succulent interior. Now go forth and enjoy your perfectly fried fish!