Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Fried Tilapia with Aromatic Lemongrass Sauce. Tender, flaky tilapia fillets are expertly coated in a crispy, golden-brown crust, then drizzled with a fragrant lemongrass sauce that’s bursting with fresh herbs and a hint of citrus. This dish is a delightful balance of textures and tastes – the crunchy exterior giving way to succulent fish, all beautifully complemented by the bright, zesty sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
This recipe provides a foolproof method for achieving perfectly crispy fried tilapia every time, even for beginner cooks. From preparing the fish to creating the aromatic lemongrass sauce, we’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. Ready to experience the deliciousness? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Red Tilapia
- Cashew nuts
- Sugar
- Mint leaves
- Ginger
- Lime juice
- Fish sauce
- Chili
- Red onion
- Lemongrass
- Crispy fried batter/flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia and Batter
- Cut the red tilapia into pieces.
- Prepare the crispy fried batter. Coat the tilapia pieces in the batter.
Step 2. Fry the Tilapia to Perfection
- Fry the tilapia pieces until crispy and cooked through. Use medium to high heat.
- Set aside the fried tilapia.
Step 3. Create the Aromatic Lemongrass Sauce
- Mix boiled sugar water, fish sauce, and lime juice.
- Add ginger, red onion, and chopped lemongrass to the sauce.
- Fry or roast the cashew nuts until fragrant.
- Add the cashew nuts and mint leaves to the sauce.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Gently pour the lemongrass sauce over the fried tilapia.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Use a strong fire before cutting to make the fish color darker and more delicious and drain the oil.
- The fish should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Arrange the finished dish attractively on a plate.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading. This helps achieve a crispier result.
2. What if I don't have fresh lemongrass?
You can substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of lemongrass paste or 1 teaspoon of lemongrass extract. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
3. How do I prevent the tilapia from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fish. Don't overcrowd the pan, and use enough oil to ensure the fish is submerged. A non-stick pan also helps.
This Crispy Fried Tilapia with Aromatic Lemongrass Sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. From the perfectly crispy fish to the bright, zesty sauce, every bite is a taste of culinary perfection. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish as a weeknight treat or a special occasion meal!