Haitian Fish Recipes
This Haitian fried fish recipe brings the authentic taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. The bold mix of spices, herbs, and crispy fried fish is a true celebration of Haitian cuisine, perfect for a flavorful family dinner. Whether you stick with the traditional fried method or opt for a baked variation, this dish is sure to impress.
Equipment
- 1 Large frying pan for frying the fish
- 1 tongs for flipping the fish during frying
- 1 Large mixing bowl for marinating the fish
- 1 paper towels for draining excess oil after frying
- 1 cutting board for preparing ingredients
- 1 knife for chopping herbs and mincing garlic
- 1 Measuring spoons for accurate seasoning
- 1 Serving platter for presenting the fish
Ingredients
- 4 whole fish cleaned and scaled
- 2 limes juiced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon thyme fresh
- 1 tablespoon Haitian epis green seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Clean the fish thoroughly, removing any scales and internal organs. Rinse the fish in cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Marinate: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, scotch bonnet pepper, parsley, thyme, and Haitian epis. Rub this marinade generously over the fish, ensuring the inside and outside are well-coated. Let the fish marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator for best flavor.
- Coat the Fish: Once marinated, lightly coat the fish with flour on all sides. This will give the fish a nice crispy exterior when fried.
- Fry the Fish: Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the fish, ensuring it doesn’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once fried, remove the fish from the oil and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges for an extra zesty flavor.
Notes
Haitian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, blending Caribbean spices with French and African influences. Haitian fried fish, or Poisson Frit, is a beloved dish that showcases these flavors. It’s typically made with whole fish, marinated in a tangy blend of lime, garlic, and traditional Haitian spices, and then fried to crispy perfection.
This recipe offers a perfect introduction to the richness of Haitian cuisine. Its mix of fresh herbs, citrus, and vibrant spices makes the fish irresistibly flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding or removing the scotch bonnet pepper based on your spice preference.
- Fish Options: You can use other firm white fish like red snapper or grouper for this recipe.
- Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the fish at 375°F for 25-30 minutes instead of frying.
