Crispy Spiced Tilapia Fillets
This Crispy Spiced Tilapia Fillets recipe features fresh tilapia coated in a zesty and crunchy breading that perfectly complements the fish's delicate flavor. The unique blend of spices, including cayenne for heat and Old Bay for a touch of coastal seasoning, makes this dish both exciting and approachable for any palate. Paired with a creamy and tangy remoulade sauce, these fillets are perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Experience a burst of flavor with every crispy bite!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tilapia fillets
4 (medium)
Eggs
2 (lightly beaten)
Mayonnaise
2 tablespoons (none)
Breadcrumbs
1 cup (none)
Onion powder
1 tablespoon (none)
Dry mustard
2 teaspoons (none)
Cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Garlic powder
1 tablespoon (none)
Old Bay Seasoning
1 tablespoon (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Vegetable oil
1/4 cup (for frying)
Butter
1 tablespoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a shallow pie plate, combine the eggs and mayonnaise. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
2
In another shallow pie plate, mix the breadcrumbs, onion powder, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly blended.
3
In a large, heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
4
Dredge each tilapia fillet in the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5
Carefully place the breaded fillets in the hot oil. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, until the fillets are golden brown and flake easily with a fork. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
6
Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7
Serve immediately with a side of your favorite remoulade sauce for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein in this recipe is fresh tilapia fillets.
How many servings does this tilapia recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the primary spices used in the breading?
The breading features a blend of onion powder, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and Old Bay seasoning.
How do I prepare the egg mixture for dredging?
Whisk 2 lightly beaten eggs with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise in a shallow pie plate until smooth.
What type of breading is used for the fish?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with various spices for a crunchy coating.
How much Old Bay seasoning should I use?
You should use 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture.
What is the recommended cooking method for the fillets?
The tilapia fillets are pan-fried in a large, heavy skillet.
What fats are used for frying the fish?
A combination of 1/4 cup vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter is used for frying.
How long should each side of the tilapia be cooked?
Each side should be fried for approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
How do I know when the tilapia fillets are fully cooked?
The fish is done when the coating is golden brown and the meat flakes easily with a fork.
Should I cook all the fillets at the same time?
It is recommended to cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
What should I do with the fish immediately after frying?
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
What sauce is suggested for serving with this dish?
The recipe suggests serving the fillets with a side of remoulade sauce.
How much cayenne pepper is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, though it can be adjusted to taste.
What is the preparation level for the tilapia fillets?
The fillets are described as medium-sized.
How much onion powder is required?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of onion powder.
What is the specific instruction for heating the oil?
Heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Why is mayonnaise added to the egg wash?
Mayonnaise adds a zesty flavor and helps the breading adhere to the fish while keeping it moist.
What amount of dry mustard is needed for the coating?
You will need 2 teaspoons of dry mustard.
How should the breading be applied to the fish?
Dredge the fish in the egg mixture first, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Is garlic powder used in this recipe?
Yes, the breading includes 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
A large, heavy skillet is recommended for even heat distribution while frying.
What is the flavor profile of the Crispy Spiced Tilapia Fillets?
The flavor is described as zesty and crunchy with a touch of coastal seasoning and a bit of heat.
How many individual ingredients are listed for this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this recipe.
Is salt and pepper included in the spice mix?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to the breadcrumb mixture to taste.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe is categorized under Tilapia/Seafood.
Can this recipe be used for entertaining guests?
Yes, it is described as an impressive dish for entertaining as well as a quick weeknight dinner.
What is the purpose of the breading in this recipe?
The breading provides a crunchy texture that complements the delicate flavor of the tilapia.
Does the recipe include nutritional information like calories or fat?
The provided data does not include specific nutritional values such as calories, fat, or carbohydrates.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include tilapia, fish fry, fried fish, crispy tilapia, dinner, seafood recipe, spicy breading, comfort food, and quick meal.