Pescado Frito Cubano
A classic Cuban dish of whole fried fish, seasoned simply and fried to crispy perfection. It's a testament to the island's abundant seafood and straightforward culinary approach.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 medium Whole fish (e.g., snapper, tilapia, or sea bream)(cleaned, about 1-1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 cups Vegetable oil or other high-smoke-point oil(for frying)
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour(optional, for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the fish and pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels. Make 2-3 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish.
- 2
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the fish, inside and out, and into the slashes. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
- 3
If using flour, lightly dust the marinated fish with flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a crispier coating.
- 4
Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350-375°F (175-190°C). The oil should be deep enough to come halfway up the sides of the fish.
- 5
Carefully place the marinated fish into the hot oil. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish, until it's golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry one fish at a time if necessary.
- 6
Remove the fish from the oil using a slotted spatula and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a minute before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is very dry before frying to prevent oil splattering.
- ✓Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
- ✓Serve immediately with lime wedges, tostones, or a simple salad.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cumin or paprika to the marinade for extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a minced habanero or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.