Whole Fried Tilapia Recipe

Prepare the Tilapia

Clean the whole tilapia by removing the scales and innards. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Marinate the Fish

In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the tilapia, both inside and out. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Bread the Fish (Optional)

If you choose to bread the fish, whisk the egg in a bowl. In a separate plate, mix the flour and cornmeal. Dip the marinated tilapia into the egg and then coat with the flour and cornmeal mixture.

Prepare the Rice

In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of white rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Heat the Black Beans

In a small pot, heat the canned black beans over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Prepare Hushpuppies

In a bowl, mix together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, milk, chopped onion, and salt until combined. Form into small balls or patties.

Fry the Hushpuppies

In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add hushpuppy balls and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Tilapia

Carefully place the tilapia in the hot oil and fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.