Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw

Name: Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buttermilk; Oil for frying; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro (optional)

Highlighted under: World Recipes

Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw are the perfect blend of crunchy, flavorful fish and a refreshing slaw, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Enjoy a taste of the coast right at home!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T04:46:28.616Z

These Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean straight to your table. Perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy and flavorful fish that pairs perfectly with a tangy slaw
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
A fresh and healthy option that everyone will enjoy

      

The Perfect Topping for Tacos

The crunch of the slaw adds not only texture but also a burst of freshness that elevates the dish to a new level. The tangy dressing made with apple cider vinegar and mayonnaise perfectly balances the rich, crispy fish. This contrast is what makes these tacos irresistible. You can even customize the slaw by adding other ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Fish tacos are versatile and can be adapted to various tastes. Whether you prefer a spicy flavor or a milder profile, this recipe allows for substitutions. Try using different types of fish, such as shrimp or salmon, or switch up the spices in the flour mixture to suit your palate. The possibilities are endless!

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect crispy fish, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown quickly, it's ready for frying. This step is crucial to get that delightful crunch without absorbing too much oil.

When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the fish in batches to maintain the oil's temperature, which helps achieve an even cook and prevents steaming. If needed, keep the fried fish warm in an oven set to low heat while you finish cooking the remaining fillets.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy fish tacos can be served with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Consider pairing them with a side of black beans or Mexican rice for a hearty option. A fresh avocado salad or grilled corn on the cob can also complement the flavors beautifully.

For an elevated dining experience, set up a taco bar with all the fixings. Provide additional toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced radishes, and various salsas. This interactive approach not only makes the meal more fun but also allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking.

Ingredients

For the Fish

1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup buttermilk
Oil for frying

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

8 small corn tortillas
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Prepare the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Prepare the Fish

In a shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper together. Dip each fish fillet in buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Fry the Fish

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded fish fillets and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Place a piece of crispy fish on each tortilla, top with the prepared slaw, and garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your delicious tacos with a side of lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!

Nutritional Benefits

Crispy fish tacos can be a healthy dinner choice without sacrificing flavor. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Pairing the fish with a fresh slaw adds fiber and important vitamins, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.

When using whole corn tortillas, you're also getting the benefits of whole grains. They are lower in calories compared to flour tortillas and provide more nutrients. This makes fish tacos a delightful option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their textures. Place the fried fish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The slaw can also be kept in the fridge but is best consumed fresh to preserve its crunch.

To reheat the fish, place it back in a hot skillet or oven to restore its crispiness instead of using the microwave, which can make it soggy. Just a few minutes on medium heat should do the trick, keeping your tacos delicious even the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour for the coating and corn tortillas.

→ What type of fish is best for tacos?

White fish like cod, tilapia, or even mahi-mahi works great for tacos.

→ Can I prepare the slaw in advance?

Yes, the slaw can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.