Caribbean Style Fried Fish
Dive into the vibrant, tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this irresistible Caribbean-Style Fried Fish recipe. Featuring whole fish like snapper, sea bass, or tilapia, this dish is infused with bold spices and fresh aromatics, including scotch bonnet pepper, garlic, thyme, and green onion. The fish is marinated for ultimate flavor, lightly dredged in a seasoned flour mix with hints of paprika and allspice, then perfectly fried to golden, crispy perfection. Whether paired with classic sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or a refreshing salad, this dish showcases the essence of Caribbean cuisine. Perfect for seafood enthusiasts seeking a flavorful, authentic experience at home!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized whole fish (snapper, sea bass, or tilapia)
- 1 lime
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper
- 2 stalks green onion (scallion)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooking oil
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
Clean the fish by rinsing it under cold water and scrubbing with lime. Remove any scales, entrails, and gills as needed, then pat dry with paper towels.
Score each fish on both sides with shallow diagonal cuts, about 1-inch apart. This will help the seasoning penetrate the flesh better.
Mince the garlic and scotch bonnet pepper. Chop the green onions finely.
In a small bowl, mix the chopped green onions, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning mixture.
Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the fish, inside the cavity, and into the scored cuts. Let the fish marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour if time allows).
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, ground allspice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Dredge the seasoned fish lightly in the flour mixture, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or until shimmering.
Carefully place the fish into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan if frying more than one fish (fry in batches if necessary).
Fry the fish for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Handle gently when flipping to avoid breaking the fish.
Remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serve the Caribbean-style fried fish immediately, garnished with lime wedges and additional fresh thyme. Enjoy with rice and peas, fried plantains, or fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3177 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 251.0 g | 322% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.5 g | 182% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 300 mg | 100% | |
| Sodium | 2735 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 108.9 g | 40% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.9 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.0 g | ||
| Protein | 135.6 g | 271% | |
| Vitamin D | 30.0 mcg | 150% | |
| Calcium | 161 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 10.7 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 2226 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
