Fried fish is a staple in Caribbean cuisine, celebrated for its crispy, golden crust and tender, flavorful interior. In Trinidad and Tobago, it’s often served with fried bake and a zesty lime pepper sauce—a beloved combination that brings a burst of island flavor to every bite.
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A Taste of the Islands
Growing up in Trinidad with a fisherman father meant fresh fish was always on the table. Whether in fish broth, simple coconut curry fish, curry fish-fried method, stewed fish, fish pie, fish choka, or fried fish, it was a central part of our meals. As a child, I didn’t always appreciate it, but now, living away from the island, I crave that taste of fresh-caught Caribbean fish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: A golden crust encases the tender, well-seasoned fish, making every bite irresistible.
- Authentic Caribbean Taste: Infused with green seasoning, this recipe brings true island flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with fried bake, coconut bake, sada roti, or rice.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method make this dish approachable for any home cook.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Fresh Fish: Choose a firm white fish like shark, kingfish, carite, red snapper, or grouper for the best texture.
- Green Seasoning: A blend of fresh herbs like chadon beni (culantro), thyme, scallion, and garlic adds deep Caribbean flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Helps remove any strong fishy odors and keeps the fish fresh.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
- Flour: A light dusting creates a crisp outer layer while sealing in moisture.
- Oil for Frying: Use vegetable or canola oil to achieve the perfect golden-brown crust.
Equipment You Will Need
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan – A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon – Helps safely flip and remove the fish from the oil.
- Paper Towels or Cooling Rack – Drains excess oil and keeps the fish crispy.
- Mixing Bowl – For marinating the fish with green seasoning.
- Sharp Knife – For cleaning and portioning the fish if needed.
Health and Nutrition Information
Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support brain function. It also provides essential vitamins like B12 and D, promoting energy production and immune health. Choosing fresh fish over processed proteins is a great way to maintain a balanced diet.
How to Make It Gluten-Free
- Use Gluten-Free Flour: Rice flour, cornmeal, cassava flour, or almond flour work great!
- Go Flourless: Skip the coating entirely for a Jamaican Escovitch-style fried fish, which gets crispy without flour.
- Air Fryer Option: Lightly coat seasoned fish with gluten-free breading and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Dry the Fish Well: Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning to help the flour coating stick and prevent oil splatters.
- Let the Fish Marinate: For deeper flavor, marinate the fish overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use Hot Oil: The oil should be hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before adding the fish to ensure a crispy crust.
- Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and makes the fish soggy. Fry in small batches for the best results.
- Use a Cooling Rack: Instead of paper towels, drain the fried fish on a wire rack to keep it crispy.
How to Store Caribbean Fried Fish
Refrigerate leftover fried fish in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Fried Fish
- Fish Choka: Flake the fish and mix with garlic, onion, hot pepper, and culantro for a smoky, savory side.
- Fish Pies: Encased in dough, similar to an aloo pie, these make a perfect snack or lunch.
- Curry Fish: Half-fried fish can be simmered in a rich curry sauce for another delicious meal. Check out my delicious recipe.
- Fish Tacos: Give it a fresh spin by adding the fish to warm tortillas with slaw, avocado, and a zesty lime crema.
- Stewed Fish: In my family’s recipe, fish is first fried before stewing, making leftover fried fish perfect for this dish! Simmer it in a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs for a delicious meal.
These simple yet flavorful ideas ensure no delicious fried fish goes to waste!
Where to Buy Fresh Fish in the Tri-State Area
If you’re in the New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut area, here are some great places to find high-quality fresh fish:
- The Fulton Fish Market (Bronx, NY): One of the largest seafood markets in the U.S., supplying many Caribbean grocery stores.
- Fish Market at Arthur Avenue (Bronx, NY): Located in Little Italy, this market offers fresh selections with friendly service. Visit their site here.
- Whole Foods Market: Carries fresh fish at various locations across the Tri-State area.
- Asian and Caribbean Supermarkets: Many small, family-owned markets in Brooklyn and Queens stock fresh fish commonly used in Caribbean cuisine. A quick Google search can help locate one near you.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this delicious Caribbean fried fish with:
- Fried bake, onion fry bake, coconut bake, coconut bread, hops bread, homemade bread, or sada roti
- Steamed rice and dhal, Trinidad bhaji, chorai bhagi, Jamaican Callaloo
- Mummy’s kitchri with spinach (kichadi)
- Yellow rice and pigeon peas or cilantro geera rice
- A side of coleslaw or a fresh salad
- A drizzle of homemade or store-bought lime pepper sauce
Trinidad Bake and Shark Sandwich
- Fried Fish can also be enjoyed in a Trinidad Bake and Shark Sandwich with all the fixings. Check out those options here. You don’t necessarily need fried shark for this sandwich! Any fried fish will do!
Caribbean Fried Fish
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh firm fish shark, kingfish, carite, red snapper, or other firm white fish
- 1 lemon juiced, for washing fish
- 3-4 tablespoons green seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating fish
- 2 cups vegetable oil or canola , for frying
Instructions
- Clean the Fish: Remove any remaining scales and rinse thoroughly with cold water and lemon juice. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Marinate the Fish: Place fish in a bowl or resealable bag. Season with green seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasoning in, ensuring the fish is well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
- Prepare for Frying: When ready to cook, bring the fish to room temperature. Heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Coat the Fish: Lightly dust each piece with flour, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the Fish: Carefully place the fish in hot oil and fry until golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Serve hot with fried bake, lime pepper sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
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