Homemade Crispy Fish Crackers

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh fish fillets (such as mackerel or white fish) 500g (1.1 lb) fresh fish fillets (such as mackerel or white fish)
• 200g (1 ½ cups) tapioca flour 200g (1 ½ cups) tapioca flour
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed for boiling Water, as needed for boiling
• Cooking oil, for frying Cooking oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, blend the fresh fish fillets until smooth.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish paste, tapioca flour, minced garlic, chili powder, ground white pepper, and salt. Mix well until a dough-like consistency is formed.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the dough and shape it into a long roll, about 2 cm (0.8 inches) in diameter.
4. 4.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently place the dough rolls into the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. 5.
   Remove the cooked rolls from the water and let them cool slightly. Slice the rolls into thin pieces, about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) thick.
6. 6.
   Heat cooking oil in a deep pan or wok. Fry the sliced crackers in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
7. 7.
   Serve the Crispy Fish Crackers hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as a standalone snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Ensure that the fish fillets are fresh and free from any bones. You can also use frozen fish fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before blending.
• Tapioca flour — Tapioca flour is essential for achieving the desired texture of the crackers. Avoid substituting it with other flours as it may alter the final result.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add more chili powder or finely chopped fresh chili to the dough mixture.
• To achieve a crispier texture, you can double-fry the crackers. After the initial frying, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again until they become extra crispy.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy tamarind sauce to enhance the flavor of the crackers.
• If you prefer a healthier option, bake the sliced crackers in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Fish Crackers as an appetizer or snack. They are best enjoyed when hot and crispy. Pair them with a refreshing cucumber and mint yogurt dip or a zesty lime and chili dip for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Crispy Fish Crackers on a platter or a wooden board. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint leaves for a pop of color. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce of your choice to create an inviting and visually appealing presentation.