Skip to content
Forkin
AppetizerSnackSide Dish

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.

Pescadito Frito (Fried Fish Bites)

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. 1

    Pat the fish pieces very dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture.

    About 2 min

  2. 2

    In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.

    About 1 min

  3. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 8

    Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.

Per serving

Nutrition

75%Score
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

Storage

Store any leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.