Battered Fish Tacos

My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Battered Fish Tacos

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the general chaos of family life. That's why I've developed a go-to recipe that's quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser: battered fish tacos. This isn't some elaborate culinary creation; it's a simple, satisfying meal that brings everyone together without requiring hours in the kitchen. The best part? Even my picky eaters love it!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Sometimes, I swap out the cherry tomatoes for whatever other fresh tomatoes I can find at the farmer's market. Other times, I'll add a different type of pepper, like poblanos or serranos, for a kick. The avocado salsa is a constant though; it's creamy, fresh and perfectly complements the crispy fish. The homemade tortillas are a labor of love (though it’s easier than you think) but you can buy them pre-made if you're really short on time. This is about keeping things simple, delicious and stress-free.

The fish itself is the star of the show. I typically use cod or tilapia, but any firm white fish works well. The batter is light and crispy, creating a beautiful contrast with the soft tortillas and vibrant salsa. The key is to not over-crowd the pan when frying; give each piece of fish ample space so it cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown crust. A sprinkle of hot sauce adds the finishing touch. And I'm a big believer in making your own hot sauce, because you can create the precise level of spice you want - but shop-bought varieties will do just as nicely.

Beyond the delicious taste, what truly makes this dish special is the sense of togetherness it brings. The act of making tacos together, assembling them with your favorite toppings, sharing stories, and enjoying a meal around the table is something I cherish. It's a simple pleasure that’s easy to overlook, but is so important in our fast-paced lives. The recipe is a small way to slow down, connect with loved ones and appreciate the everyday moments.

Beyond the Taco: The tortillas are fantastic on their own, perfect for scooping up leftover chili, stews, or soups. Make a big batch, freeze some, and you'll always have a readily available ingredient that makes even a humble soup feel special. The avocado salsa, meanwhile, is equally versatile - it makes a lovely spread for sandwiches, or add it to eggs and scramble for a little bit of zest!

So, if you're looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal that won't break the bank or take all evening to prepare, look no further than these battered fish tacos. They are a reliable go-to weeknight winner and easily adaptable for a mid-week meal. Even when I'm exhausted from a long day, I find a certain sense of satisfaction in making this simple meal and sharing it with my family.

It’s more than just a meal; it’s a ritual, a connection, and a delicious way to end the day. Try it out, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in your house too!

Step-by-step

• For tortillas: Add flour, baking powder, and salt to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and mix until combined.
• With the mixer running, add oil and water; mix for about 1 minute until the mixture comes together. Mix for another minute until the dough is smooth. (Or mix by hand.)
• Transfer to a floured surface, cover with a damp tea towel, and let rest for at least 1 hour.
• After resting, heat a dry cast-iron frying pan over medium heat. Divide dough into 16 or more evenly sized pieces.
• Roll into balls, press flat, and roll out each into a thin disc using a lightly floured rolling pin.
• Cook each tortilla in the hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned and bubbly. Adjust heat as needed.
• Remove from pan, stack, and repeat. If making ahead, cool, cover, and store for up to 24 hours or freeze.
• For the salad: Chop tomatoes, add to a bowl with chopped capsicum, avocado, and lime juice.
• Add salt and olive oil; stir gently. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Place salad on each tortilla. Add pieces of hot battered fish, coriander, hot sauce, and/or lime juice and/or jalapeños.
• Fold and serve immediately.