South African Spiced Fish Fry

Ingredients

In this South African adaptation of the Fish Fry, we incorporate traditional South African spices such as paprika, cumin, coriander, and turmeric to infuse the dish with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we use a crispy batter to give the fish a crunchy texture, which is a departure from the original American version that often uses a breaded coating. We alse have the original recipe for Fish Fry, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish.
3. 3.
   In a shallow dish, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
4. 4.
   Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. 6.
   Fry the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. 7.
   Remove the fish from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Serve the South African Spiced Fish Fry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Choose firm white fish fillets such as cod, haddock, or tilapia for the best results. Ensure the fish is fresh and free from any unpleasant odors.
• Paprika — Opt for a good quality paprika to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Fresh cilantro — Rinse the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before using it as a garnish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, refrigerate the fish fillets for 30 minutes after coating them in the flour mixture before frying.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
• Serve the South African Spiced Fish Fry with a side of traditional South African chakalaka relish for an authentic experience.
• If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the fish fillets in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the South African Spiced Fish Fry as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Accompany it with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish to add a tangy flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown fish fillets on a platter and garnish them with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them with lemon wedges on the side for an appealing presentation.