Crispy Tilapia Bowl

A crispy tilapia bowl is a delightful and nutritious dish that typically consists of lightly battered and fried tilapia fillets, served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice or your choice of grains like quinoa or brown rice. This bowl is often garnished with a variety of colorful vegetables, adding both crunch and flavor. For some additional texture and flavor I added tomatoes, shredded romaine, avocado, and red onions. But don't stop there, you can be creative with this one!

For an extra kick of flavor, the crispy tilapia can be drizzled with a tangy sauce, such as a lime dressing or a spicy mayo, complemented with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Some variations may also include pickled vegetables or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added layer of texture and taste. The crispy tilapia bowl is a versatile meal that balances the light, flaky fish with the vibrancy of fresh produce, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying yet health-conscious lunch or dinner.

Serves 4

Ingredients

Fried Fish:

• 4-5 tilapia fillets

• 1 cup flour

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups Panko bread crumbs (plain or Italian, I used Italian)

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tbsp mustard powder

• 1 tsp ginger powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• vegetable oil for frying

• 2 cups cooked white rice

• shredded romaine, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, cilantro, avocado for garnish

  Avocado Lime Dressing

• 1 avocado

• 2 limes juiced

• 1/2 cup mayo

• 1 garlic clove

• 1/4 cup cilantro

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• salt and pepper to taste

  
  

  Directions:

1. Pat dry tilapia filets and cut each fillet into 4 pieces. In three separate bowls add flour and seasonings, 2 eggs beat, and panko bread crumbs. In batches coat tilapia with flour, then eggs, and lastly panko bread crumbs. Set a side until ready to fry.

2. In a large skillet or frying pan add vegetable oil until it is about 1/2 inches from the bottom of the pan. Heat oil to 350 degrees.

3. Add fish in batches and fry on each side until browned or 4-5 minutes. Set fish aside on paper towel to soak up excess oil.

4. In a small food processor or blender add all ingredients for dressing. Blend until smooth, checking for salt and pepper. If too thick add more oil or a splash of water.

5. Now assemble your bowls. Rice, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, avocado, fish and top with the dressing, more cilantro and lime juice!