Jul 14 2026

Fish Fry Recipe

Time45m
Serves3

Fish, spices, pepper, and ginger

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Ingredients

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Fish & Marinade

Method

Fish & Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare Fish

    Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. If the fillets are thick, cut into 3–4 pieces so they cook evenly. Place the fish in a shallow bowl or zip-top bag.

  2. 2

    Make Marinade

    Grate the fresh ginger and mince the garlic. In a small bowl combine grated ginger, minced garlic, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp chili or cayenne, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp salt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons yogurt or buttermilk (if using). Mix into a smooth paste.

  3. 3

    Marinate

    Coat the fish thoroughly with the spice-ginger marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for stronger flavor). If short on time, let stand at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before frying.

Coating & Frying

  1. 4

    Prepare Coating

    In a shallow dish combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon extra ground black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk to distribute spices evenly.

  2. 5

    Coat Fish

    Remove marinated fish from the refrigerator. Shake off excess wet marinade, then dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres. Shake off excess flour and set the fillets on a rack or plate while you heat the oil.

  3. 6

    Heat Oil

    Add about 1/2 cup vegetable oil to a large skillet (enough to cover the bottom with about 1/8–1/4 inch depth). Heat over medium-high until shimmering and a pinch of flour sizzles on contact (about 350°F / 175°C equivalent).

  4. 7

    Fry Fish

    Carefully place fillets in the hot oil without overcrowding; work in batches if needed. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side depending on thickness, until coating is golden brown and fish flakes easily with a fork. Turn once using tongs or a spatula.

  5. 8

    Drain

    Transfer cooked fillets to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or onto paper towels to drain briefly. Season immediately with a light pinch of salt, if desired.

  6. 9

    Finish

    Let rest 1–2 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges and optional garnish of chopped cilantro and sliced onion.

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