Now that my son is almost 10 months (when did he get so old?!?), he’s a little more independent. That makes dinnertime a easier than when he was an infant. I have more time to put together dinner but I’m still on the hunt for great recipes that can put dinner on the table fast. Just because he doesn’t need me as much doesn’t mean I want to spend a bunch of time in the kitchen when I could spend it kissing his adorable dimple or helping him learn to walk. This Pan Fried Tilapia, is one of those glorious recipes. This is on our go-to list of recipes right now because it's so easy and delicious.
I made the recipe gluten free, dairy free and AIP compliant but have options if you want to use regular flour or avoid using lard. I used cassava flour, which comes from the cassava root, as it’s gluten free. It’s not commonly found in grocery stores. You’ll probably have to go to a specialty store like Sprouts or Whole Foods. However, you can also find it online. If you’re not gluten free, wheat flour can also be used. If you’re not interested in using lard, just use oil with a high smoking point. I’ve included a list of other acceptable oils in the recipe.
Pan Fried Tilapia
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Cassava Flour regular flour is fine if you’re not gluten free
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 Tilapia Fillets about 1 pound
- Salt
- Ground Pepper
- 3 tablespoons Lard Ghee, Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil would be a good substitute
- Lemon wedged (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the flour and garlic powder on a plate and then set aside.
- Place the fish on a second plate and sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Next dredge the fish fillets in the flour mixture until each side is lightly coated.
- Heat the lard to a large frying pan and make sure it’s hot before gently placing the fillets in the oil.
- Cook the fish for about 2 minutes then use a spatula to gently flip the fillets.
- Cook for another 2 minutes on the other side and then remove from the heat.
- Serve with a lemon wedge, if desired.
I made this last week and it was yummy! I am wondering about if/ how it could be baked in the oven? I am trying to find AIP fish recipes that are baked/ broiled to reduce oil in cooking. Thanks for the recipe! I am sure it will be in our monthly menu moving forwards 🙂
My husband said it was the best fish recipe I ever made! I fry it in ghee and it comes out so crispy and tasty that I don’t even have to add lemon or tartar sauce. The best part is that it is so easy and quick to make. Absolutely love it!!
Ghee is a great idea and would give a lot of flavor as well. I'm so glad you liked it.
Easiest and tastiest fish recipe! I make this almost weekly! Very good as is, but it's also a good canvas for sauces like pesto.
That's exactly how I feel! I'm so glad you agree.
Just made this and eating it as we speak! It was so good and so simple, thank you!
Hi Karen. I'm so glad you liked the recipe. Thanks for letting me know. It made my day!