Make the best fish tacos at home with this recipe for crispy battered white fish, topped with a fresh slaw and a homemade lime crema.
Author:cookingbycarla
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Mexican
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound cod or mahi mahi fillets, cut into 1-inch strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup light beer, cold
Vegetable oil, for frying
12 small corn or flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage mix
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving
For the Creamy Lime Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the fish batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Slowly whisk in the cold beer until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
Heat the oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Batter and fry the fish: Dip the fish strips into the batter, letting excess drip off. Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Make the creamy lime sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt. Stir until smooth.
Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas according to package directions, either on a dry skillet or briefly over an open gas flame until soft and pliable.
Assemble the tacos: Place a piece of crispy fish onto each warm tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, a drizzle of the creamy lime sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Notes
For the best flavor, use a light lager beer for the batter.
If you prefer grilling, season the fish strips with chili powder and cumin before cooking.
Warm tortillas are key for good fish tacos; do not skip this step.