Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as simple as it is scrumptious? Look no further than our Pan Fried Pacific Whiting Fillets! This delightful seafood recipe is not only a breeze to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it also promises a crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish that will have your taste buds dancing. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Trust us, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your weekly menu!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Pacific whiting fillets
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of Pacific whiting fillets, 1/2 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt and pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons of butter, and lemon wedges for serving.
- Rinse the Pacific whiting fillets under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they are not wet before coating.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Take each fillet and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess flour and set the fillets aside on a plate.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt, swirling the pan to ensure it coats the bottom evenly.
- Carefully place the coated fillets in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Gently flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until cooked through and flaky.
- Once cooked, remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess butter.
- Serve the pan-fried Pacific whiting fillets immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your delicious seafood dish!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh Pacific whiting fillets. If possible, buy them from a reputable fishmonger who can assure you of their quality.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the fillets dry before dredging them in the flour mixture. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier finish.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! A well-seasoned fillet enhances the natural flavor of the fish, making each bite even more delicious.
- Control the Heat: Keep an eye on your skillet temperature. If the butter begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure the fillets cook evenly without burning.
- Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cooking in batches allows for better heat distribution, ensuring that each fillet gets that perfect golden crust.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the fillets right after cooking while they’re hot and crispy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating will brighten the flavors beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg