Mojarra frita mexicana

Method

1. 1 Make deep diagonal cuts down to the bone on both sides of the fish, then rub salt and crushed garlic into each cut.
2. 2 Marinate for 30 minutes, then pat dry and lightly dust with flour.
3. 3 Deep-fry at 180 degrees for 8 minutes on each side until the fish scales are crispy and edible.
4. 4 Using a ladle, continuously pour hot oil over the fish that is protruding from the oil.
5. 5 Continuously drizzling oil is a way to ensure the whole fish is evenly crispy without needing a very deep pot of oil.
6. 6 Squeeze in some lime juice and serve with shredded cabbage, avocado, cornbread, and dried chili sauce.

With an appliance

• Air fryer 35 min

  Replace step 3: spray oil evenly, then steam in a hot air pot at 200 degrees for 20 minutes; the fish scales will be less crispy than when fried in oil.