Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEl AztecaWhole Fried Tilapia Recipe

Whole Fried Tilapia Recipe

Inspired by El Azteca
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Whole, bone in, seasoned fried tilapia. Served with fries, sliced avocado, & pico de gallo

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Ingredients

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For the Fried Tilapia

For the Fries

For the Pico de Gallo

For Serving

Method

Preparation of Tilapia

  1. 1

    Clean the Fish

    Rinse the whole tilapia under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Season the Fish

    In a bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the tilapia, including inside the cavity. Drizzle lemon juice over the fish and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparation of Fries

  1. 3

    Cut the Potatoes

    Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips to create fries.

  2. 4

    Fry the Potatoes

    In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the potato strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt immediately.

Preparation of Pico de Gallo

  1. 5

    Chop Ingredients

    Dice the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño. Chop the cilantro finely.

  2. 6

    Mix Pico de Gallo

    In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Frying the Tilapia

  1. 7

    Heat Oil

    In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  2. 8

    Fry the Fish

    Carefully place the seasoned tilapia in the hot oil. Fry for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Serving the Dish

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the whole fried tilapia alongside crispy fries, sliced avocado, and a generous scoop of pico de gallo.

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