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how to cook a whole tilapia on the stove

How to Cook Whole tilapia on the stove

Learn hot to cook a whole tilapia on the stove. Bringing a piece of my Mexican heritage to your kitchen with this delightful crispy pan-fried tilapia recipe!
5 from 1 vote
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Servings 4
Calories 682 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fresh whole tilapia
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 limes
  • 20 springs of fresh cilantro
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder or garlic salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 cup cooking oil
  • 4 sliced garlic cloves

Instructions
 

  • Clean the Fish: Ensure the tilapia are descaled and rinsed thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lime juice over both sides of each fish. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper. Inside the cavity of the fish, place a pinch of salt, 5 sprigs of cilantro and a sliced garlic clove for added flavor.
  • Dredging: Spread the all-purpose flour on a shallow dish. Coat each tilapia evenly with flour. This step is crucial as the flour absorbs moisture, preventing oil splatters during frying and adding a delightful crispy texture.
  • Heating the Pan: Place a deep skillet or cast iron skillet (any good pan can make the work) over medium-high heat. After about 2 minutes, add enough cooking oil to create a ½-inch depth. Allow the oil to heat for another 2 minutes until it shimmers.
  • Frying: Carefully lay the floured tilapia into the hot oil. Fry for approximately 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the skin turns a rich golden brown and achieves a crispy texture. Use a spatula to flip the fish gently to avoid splattering.
  • Finishing Touch: Once done, transfer the tilapia to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. While hot, sprinkle salt on top and squeeze some lime juice for enhanced flavor.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
How to Cook Whole tilapia on the stove
Amount per Serving
Calories
682
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
57
g
88
%
Saturated Fat
 
4
g
25
%
Trans Fat
 
0.2
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
16
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
36
g
Sodium
 
586
mg
25
%
Potassium
 
126
mg
4
%
Carbohydrates
 
41
g
14
%
Fiber
 
2
g
8
%
Sugar
 
1
g
1
%
Protein
 
5
g
10
%
Vitamin A
 
356
IU
7
%
Vitamin C
 
12
mg
15
%
Calcium
 
28
mg
3
%
Iron
 
3
mg
17
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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