Fried Whole Tilapia With Basil And Chilies Recipes

FRIED WHOLE TILAPIA WITH BASIL AND CHILIES

Steps:

• Heat 1 quart oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). If you do not have a thermometer, then dip the head of the fish into the oil; if it sizzles, it is ready, if it does not sizzle, then wait a couple minutes and try again.
• Rinse the fish and dry well. Make several angled slits along the body of the fish, cutting down to the rib bones. Make two lateral slits along the back of the fish, from head to tail, on either side of the dorsal fin. These cuts will ensure quick cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Gently slip the fish into the oil and fry until crispy, 7 to 10 minutes. Carefully remove the fish from the oil and let it drain on paper towels. Place on a large serving platter.
• While the fish drains, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet. Cook and stir the chili peppers, garlic, and onion in the hot oil until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir the fish sauce and soy sauce into the mixture, remove from heat, and fold the Thai basil and cilantro into the mixture. Pour the sauce over the fish to serve.

DEEP-FRIED TILAPIA

Steps:

• Season fillets with salt and pepper. Dust with 1/3 cup of flour.
• Beat buttermilk and egg in a bowl. Combine remaining flour, cornmeal, seafood seasoning, baking powder, and baking soda in another bowl. Dip all flour-dusted fillets into egg mixture, then into seasoned flour mixture.
• Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large frying pan or deep fryer. Fry fillets, working in batches if needed, until golden, about 2 minutes on each side. Season again with salt as soon as your take them out of the pan or fryer.