Go Back
+ servings
Whiting fish stacked on parchment paper in a bowl.
Print

Pan Fried Whiting Fish Recipe

This pan fried whiting fish is a southern classic that is never a disappointment. This recipe works for many reasons: it is extremely easy to prepare. It is gluten-free. It is incredibly delicious. And fries well in minutes.
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Haitian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 161kcal
Cost $12.00

Equipment

  • Heavy Bottom Skillet or Cast Iron Skillet

Ingredients

  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Cornmeal
  • 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp. dried basil
  • salt and pepper to taste; Lightly season the fish with salt and pepper to taste. I also added 1 ½ tsp. Kosher salt and 1 tsp. ground black pepper to the flour coating.
  • 1 pk. Whiting fish fillet
  • vegetable oil for frying Peanut will also work as well. I used about 6 cups of oil

Instructions

  • Wash and lightly season the fish with salt and pepper. Set aside.
    In a medium bowl, combine the cornmeal, cayenne pepper, all-purpose flour, salt and pepper to taste, and basil. Mix well and set aside.
    Preparing Fried Whiting batter
  • in a heavy bottom pan add the oil and heat the oil to 375℉.
    Coat each fish one by one and set aside on a plate.
    Coating whiting fish
  • Then fry the fish in small batches for 5 minutes per side. Repeat the steps with the remaining fish. Serve warm and enjoy! 
    Removing whiting from oil

Video

Notes

Serving Suggestions

  • Dipping Sauces: Tartar sauce, hot sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  • Bread Pairings or Make it a Sandwich: Alongside vegetables, serve this fried whiting with this Air fryer Milk Buns, or serve it as a sandwich in a soft bun with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiment.

Recipe Notes & Tips

As you may notice from the ingredients list, I used a combination of flour and cornmeal. However, if you do not have cornmeal, breadcrumbs will work as well.
You can alter the recipe in any way with the ingredients you have on hand.  Make it your own – natural or dry herbs will also work. Feel free to also omit the cayenne pepper or add more for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating Suggestions

Refrigerating: Fried whiting is best when it is served immediately. Transfer cooled leftover fish to an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat the fish, in the oven at 275 degrees to maintain its crispiness, heat until heated through or in the microwave until heated through.
**** When printing the recipe, please unselect the camera so that the pictures are NOT printed with the recipe (if preferred).
 
**** This post may contain affiliate links. See our full Privacy Policy. We may receive compensation by clicking on the links and or making a purchase.
 
Calories are estimated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 6People | Calories: 161kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 62mg | Potassium: 28mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 400IU | Vitamin C: 0.8mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 0.4mg