Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are a favorite among food lovers, offering a delightful combination of crispy fish, fresh toppings, and zesty flavors all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Using an air fryer, you can enjoy the same crispy texture with a fraction of the oil. This recipe is not only healthier but also quick and easy to prepare. Here’s a full recipe with step-by-step instructions to make delicious air fryer fish tacos at home.

Ingredients For the Fish:

• 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray

For the Slaw:

• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• Lime wedges for serving
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, or crumbled queso fresco

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Cut the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel and cut them into bite-sized strips or chunks for easy assembly in tacos.
2. Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Fish: Dredge each piece of fish in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded fish on a plate or tray.

Step 2: Air Fry the Fish

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Arrange the Fish: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded fish pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the fish with olive oil.
3. Cook: Air fry the fish for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the breading is golden brown and the fish is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 3: Make the Slaw

1. Mix the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, carrots, and chopped cilantro.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until well coated. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Set the slaw aside while the fish finishes cooking.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven.
2. Build Your Tacos: Place a few pieces of crispy fish onto each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of slaw and any additional toppings you like, such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco.
3. Finish with Lime: Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Fish Tacos

• Healthier Alternative: Air frying reduces the need for oil, making these tacos lighter but still crispy and delicious.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, toppings, or type of fish to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual dinner party, these tacos are sure to impress.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Choose Fresh Fish: Opt for firm, fresh white fish fillets for the best texture and flavor.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure even cooking, place the fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
3. Season the Slaw: The tangy, creamy slaw adds a refreshing balance to the crispy fish, so don’t skip it!
4. Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like mango salsa, pickled onions, or spicy sriracha mayo for variety.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is packed with protein from the fish, fiber from the cabbage and carrots, and healthy fats from the avocado (if added). By air frying, you cut down on excess oil, making this a heart-healthy choice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.

3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover fish and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the fish in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Air fryer fish tacos are a delightful combination of crispy, flavorful fish and refreshing slaw, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This recipe is a healthier, faster, and equally delicious alternative to traditional fried fish tacos. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to become a household favorite. Give them a try and savor the taste of this Tex-Mex classic with a modern twist!

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