Baja Fish Tacos
Baja-style tacos with beer-battered white fish, a lime crema and shredded cabbage for crunch. Twenty minutes from fridge to table, and infinitely better than they have any right to be.
Method
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Whisk the soured cream, mayonnaise, lime zest and juice, and chipotle paste with a pinch of salt. Toss a third of it through the cabbage, onion and coriander and set the rest aside for drizzling.
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Pat the fish strips very dry and season them.
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Whisk the flour, cornflour, baking powder, paprika, cayenne and salt together, then whisk in the cold lager until just combined — a few lumps are fine and preferable.
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Heat the oil to 185°C / 365°F.
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Dip the fish strips in the batter, let the excess run off for a second, and lower into the oil. Fry three or four at a time for 3 to 4 minutes until deep gold and crisp.
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Drain on a rack and season immediately with salt.
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Warm the tortillas on a dry pan for 20 seconds a side.
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Build each taco with slaw first, then fish, then a drizzle of chipotle crema and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips
- Keep the batter ice cold — sit the bowl in ice water if your kitchen is warm.
- Slaw on the bottom acts as insulation and stops the tortilla going soggy.
- Fish too thin will overcook before the batter browns. Aim for 2 cm strips.
Pairing Suggestions
- A cold Pacifico with lime, or a paloma
- Serve with black beans and grilled corn
- Finish with lime sorbet
Storage & Reheating
Fried fish does not keep. The crema and slaw hold 2 days refrigerated, so prep those ahead and fry to order.
Nutritional Highlights
Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.