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fried branzino on wooden board with French fries
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Crispy Skin-on Whole Fried Branzino Recipe

Learn how to make golden fried branzino with a zesty lemon marinade and spicy dipping sauce.
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean
Prep Time 20 minutes
Servings 1 servings
Calories 849kcal
Author Mirlene

Equipment

Ingredients

To Marinate The Fish:

  • 1 whole branzino fish; cleaned and slits on the surface
  • 2 tbsp. old bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. curry powder
  • 2 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 4 cups oil for frying

To Fry:

  • 4 cups oil for frying

For The Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp. tartar sauce
  • 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp. paprika
  • pinch of salt optional
  • 1 tsp. ketchup

Instructions

  • Prepare the fish: Clean, pat dry, and score each side.
    Marinate: Combine lemon juice, spices, and olive oil. Rub the marinade all over the fish, making sure to get it into the slits. Let it rest for 15–30 minutes.
    Heat oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F).
    adding seasoning to whole branzino fish
  • Fry: Carefully lower the branzino into the oil. Fry each side for 4–6 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
    Drain: Place the fish on paper towels to remove excess oil.
    For the sauce: Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl and serve with the fish. This sauce adds tang and creaminess that balances the crispy fried fish perfectly.
    branzino frying in hot oil

Video

Notes

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Calories are estimated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 849kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 61g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 33g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 4860mg | Potassium: 1255mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 187IU | Vitamin C: 120mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 35mg