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 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buttermilk; Vegetable oil for frying; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw are a delightful combination of crunchy, flavorful fish topped with a refreshing slaw, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-03T23:38:27.949Z

These Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw are inspired by traditional Mexican street food. The combination of crispy fried fish, zesty slaw, and fresh toppings creates a vibrant and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to the sunny beaches of Mexico.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy slaw
Bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients and spices
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Crunch

Crispy Fish Tacos are all about texture. The golden-brown coating on the fish provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy slaw. This delightful interplay of textures enhances every bite, making each taco a memorable experience. The fish, when fried to perfection, offers a flaky interior that melts in your mouth, while the slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the fish.

Achieving the right level of crispiness is crucial. The secret lies in the double-dipping technique: first, the fish is soaked in buttermilk, which not only adds flavor but also helps the flour mixture adhere better. This ensures that when you fry the fish, it forms a crispy outer layer that protects the tender fish inside.

Flavorful Slaw

The slaw in these tacos is not just an afterthought; it plays a pivotal role in elevating the overall flavor profile. Made with fresh cabbage and carrots, it introduces vibrant colors and a wealth of nutrients. The addition of mayonnaise and lime juice creates a creamy dressing that brings everything together, adding a zesty kick that complements the fish beautifully.

Feel free to customize the slaw to your liking! Adding ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat or fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the flavor even further. A touch of honey can also provide a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the lime juice, making it a versatile addition to your tacos.

Easy and Quick Preparation

One of the best aspects of Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw is how quick and easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, the recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute the fish with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option, making it a versatile dish suitable for various dietary preferences. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy these delicious tacos no matter what ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious tacos:

For the Fish

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

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

8 small corn or flour tortillas
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Crispy Fish Tacos:

Prepare the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Fish

In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each fish fillet into buttermilk and then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.

Fry the Fish

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated fish fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas and layer them with the crispy fish and slaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy fish tacos!

Tips for the Best Fish Tacos

To ensure your fish tacos are crispy and flavorful, choose the freshest fish available. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, don't overcrowd the pan when frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain that all-important crispiness.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the fish in lime juice and spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the fish with taste but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in a more delicious taco.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Fish Tacos are best served fresh and hot. Pair them with a side of lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos just before eating. The acidity of the lime juice brightens the flavors and lifts the dish even further. You can also serve them with a side of black beans or a light avocado salad for a complete meal.

For those who enjoy heat, consider offering a selection of hot sauces on the side. A zesty chipotle sauce or a classic salsa can add an exciting kick that complements the fish and slaw beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before coating.

→ What type of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.