Pescadito Frito (Fried Fish Bites)
Crispy, golden-fried fish bites, a popular Spanish tapa. These small pieces of fish are lightly battered and quickly fried, perfect for sharing with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 25 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Per serving
- 450 kcal
Allergen information: may contain fish and gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 500 gfirm white fish fillet, cut into 2-3 cm pieces
- 1 cupall-purpose flour
- 1 tspsalt
- 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
- 4 cupvegetable oil, for frying
garnish
- 1 pcslemon, cut into wedges
Equipment
slotted spoon · shallow dish · large pan · paper towels · thermometer
The method
Step by step
- 1
Pat the fish pieces very dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture.
About 2 min
- 2
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
About 1 min
- 3
Dredge the fish pieces in the seasoned flour, ensuring each piece is fully coated, then shake off any excess.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: A light coating is key for a crisp result.
- 4
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer to 175°C (350°F).
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
- 5
Carefully add the fish pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy fish.
- 6
Fry for 2-3 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through.
About 6 min
Cook’s note: The fish should be flaky when gently pressed.
- 7
Remove the fried fish with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
About 1 min
- 8
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 450.1kcal
- Protein
- 25.7g
- Carbs
- 25.7g
- Fat
- 27.8g
- Fibre
- 1.9g
- Sugar
- 0.8g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store any leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.