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Pescado Frito, or fried fish, is a beloved dish in many Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. It's known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful fish inside. Perfect for a sunny day or a family gathering, this dish brings a taste of the sea to your table. Follow this easy recipe to make authentic Pescado Frito at home.

Ingredients:

2 whole fish (about 2 lbs or 0.91 kg each), cleaned and scaled

1 cup (0.5 lb or 0.23 kg) all-purpose flour

1 cup (0.5 lb or 0.23 kg) cornmeal

1 teaspoon (0.005 lb or 0.002 kg) salt

1 teaspoon (0.005 lb or 0.002 kg) black pepper

1 teaspoon (0.005 lb or 0.002 kg) garlic powder

1 teaspoon (0.005 lb or 0.002 kg) paprika

1 teaspoon (0.005 lb or 0.002 kg) cumin

2 cups (0.48 liters) vegetable oil for frying

2 limes, cut into wedges

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Fish:

Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Season the Fish:

In a large bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Rub the spice mixture all over the fish, making sure to get into the slashes and inside the cavity. Let the fish marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour and cornmeal.

Coat the Fish:

Dredge each fish in the flour-cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.

Fry the Fish:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place the fish into the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serving:

Serve the Pescado Frito hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy it with a side of rice, salad, or tostones (fried plantains) for a complete meal.

Pescado Frito is a simple yet delightful dish that showcases the flavors of fresh fish with a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will bring a touch of coastal cuisine to your home. Enjoy the authentic taste and the satisfying crunch of Pescado Frito!