Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar MesaFried Tilapia Basket Recipe

Fried Tilapia Basket Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

4 pieces

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Ingredients

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Fish Preparation

Serving

Method

Fish Preparation

  1. 1

    Marinate the Tilapia

    In a bowl, combine the tilapia fillets with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the fillets are well coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Breading

  1. 2

    Prepare the Breading Mixture

    In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This will be used to coat the tilapia.

Frying

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the breading mixture into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

  2. 4

    Coat the Fish

    Remove the marinated tilapia from the marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge each fillet in the breading mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.

  3. 5

    Fry the Tilapia

    Carefully place the coated fillets in the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches.

  4. 6

    Drain the Fish

    Once cooked, remove the fillets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serving

  1. 7

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the fried tilapia hot with lemon wedges and a side of tartar sauce for dipping.

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