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Crispy fish tacos with slaw and lime crema on a plate

Crispy Fish Tacos with Slaw and Lime Crema

A joyful plate of crispy fish tacos featuring a bright lime crema and a refreshing cabbage slaw, perfect for a casual yet celebratory meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Fish Tacos
  • 1.5 pounds Fish fillets (white fish like cod or tilapia) Use firm white fish that stays moist.
  • 8 pieces Corn tortillas Soft and traditional; gluten-free options.
  • 3 cups Shredded cabbage (green or red) Provides crunch and freshness.
  • 3 pieces Limes For juice and zest.
  • ¾ cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt Use all Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • ¼ cup Mayonnaise Optional, for a creamier lime crema.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika if available.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • ½ to 1 cup Vegetable oil For frying.

Method
 

Prepare the Lime Crema
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, juice of 1–2 limes, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend for an ultra-smooth texture.
  2. Taste and adjust acidity with lime juice or mayo as desired.
Make the Cabbage Slaw
  1. In a separate bowl, toss shredded cabbage with fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
  2. Consider adding chopped cilantro, jalapeño, or honey for extra flavor.
Heat the Oil
  1. Add vegetable oil to a frying pan, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep, and heat over medium heat until hot, around 350°F.
Season and Cook the Fish
  1. Pat the fish fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
  2. Fry the fillets in hot oil for 2–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel.
  3. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F, season fish, brush with oil, and bake for 10–14 minutes.
Warm the Tortillas
  1. Warm corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
Assemble the Tacos
  1. On a warm tortilla, add a piece of fried fish, top with slaw, and drizzle with lime crema. Customize with optional toppings.

Notes

These tacos are best enjoyed hot. Offer lime wedges and hot sauce for additional flavor. Store leftovers separately for best texture.