Deep-Fried Tilapia (Fish)

This is a no-fail recipe for MILD, white, flaky, not greasy, and delicious fish for either sandwiches or as a main entree on a plate. The trick is to get the cooking oil plenty hot, 375-degrees F or higher. Also, there is no "drenching" in egg wash involved in this recipe. Tilapia works best but Whitefish fillets are also great. Use either Canola oil, Peanut oil, or Crisco. Others may "smoke" at high heat. If you wish to mix in additional favorite herbs or spices into the flour, (e.g., a teaspoon of dried basil, or, Old Bay Seasoning), go right ahead. Easy! Enjoy!

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  tilapia fillets
• 1  quart  cooking oil (or Crisco)
• 1 1⁄2 cups seasoned flour (I use Kentucky Kernel brand)

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a 3- or 4-quart pan to at least 375-degrees F. (just a couple of drops of water flipped off your hand will really crackle when the oil has reached this heat level).
2. Roll the DRY and THAWED fish in the flour, shake off excess flour, and let the filets sit on a rack or, on wax paper, for 5-10 minutes.
3. Roll the fillets in the flour a second time, shake off excess flour, and deep fry, no more than 2 at a time. (frying more than 2 filets at once drives down the oil temperature which will make the fish and coating soggy!) Turn once in the pan after a minute or so and remove when golden brown. They should be done in under 4 minutes, white and flakey inside at the thickest section of the filet. Do not overcook!
4. Drain each filet on paper towels for a few seconds and serve.