Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This fried snapper fillet recipe is your answer. It's a simple dish perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress guests. Forget complicated recipes; this one delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Prepare to experience flaky, juicy snapper with a perfectly crispy exterior – a true taste of the tropics in your own kitchen. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb snapper fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or your preferred frying oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Excess moisture will prevent the flour from adhering properly.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Fry the Snapper:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour sizzles immediately upon contact.
- Dredge each snapper fillet in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Carefully place the fillets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Work in batches if necessary.
- Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until the snapper is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove the cooked fillets from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright, zesty touch.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Snapper:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This is essential for achieving a crispy crust and ensuring even cooking.
- Use high-quality oil: A good frying oil with a high smoke point is crucial for preventing burning and maintaining a crisp texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your signature flavor profile. Garlic powder, onion powder, or Old Bay seasoning are all excellent additions.
- Check for doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure the snapper is cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Snapper: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.
- Lemon Herb Snapper: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to the flour mixture for a vibrant, herbaceous flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds extra zest.
- Breaded Snapper: For a thicker crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of, or in addition to, the flour.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy fried snapper fillet recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Its delicious taste and simple preparation make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and sides to create your own unique and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!