Dive into the fresh flavors of the Mexican coast with Baja Fish Tacos. This dish combines lightly battered and fried fish with crisp cabbage, creamy sauce, and a squeeze of lime, all wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. Each bite delivers a burst of fresh, tangy, and savory tastes, evoking the breezy shores of Baja California.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 8 tacos
- Serving Size: 1 taco
Ingredients
Fish
- 500 grams (1.1 pounds) firm white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
- 120 grams (4.2 ounces or 1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 240 ml (8 ounces or 1 cup) beer
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Tacos
- 8 corn tortillas
- 200 grams (7 ounces) shredded cabbage
- 1 medium ripe avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Sauce
- 120 ml (4 ounces or 1/2 cup) mayonnaise
- 60 ml (2 ounces or 1/4 cup) sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Method of Preparation
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gradually whisk in the beer to create a batter.
- Cut the fish into strips and season with salt and pepper. Dip each piece into the batter.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the fish until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder in a bowl.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos: place a piece of fried fish on each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of sauce. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use a light beer for a crispier batter.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for a non-greasy finish.
- Use fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make Baja Fish Tacos with grilled fish? Absolutely, grilled fish is a healthier and delicious alternative.
- What can I use instead of beer in the batter? Sparkling water is a good non-alcoholic substitute.
- How long can I store the fried fish? It's best eaten fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.