Pan Fried Swai Fish Recipe

Crispy fried swai fish without flour is a delicious seafood dinner with a light cornmeal breading. Deep fried or fry in a skillet at home for a family friendly meal. If you enjoyed How to Cook Walleye, this one is going to be a real hit too.

What is Swai?

Swai is a type of freshwater fish that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in local river basins. It is often farmed in aquaculture systems and has gained popularity in many parts of the world, including the United States, due to its affordability and mild flavor. It has a white, flaky flesh that is similar in taste and texture to other mild white fish varieties like tilapia or our Air Fryer Catfish No Cornmeal recipe.

How Can You Cook Swai Fish?

Filets can be prepared in various ways, including boiled fish, baking, broiling, grilling, frying, or poaching. It can take on the flavors of different seasonings and sauces. More affordable compared to other types of seafood, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious consumers.

Ingredients

• 2 fillets of swai fish
• Corn flour is a cross between all purpose and cornmeal
• Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• Garlic powder is nice, or onion for flavor
• Old Bay we love on all seafood
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Oil for frying of course

Variations

The “breading” is really up to you and so are the seasonings. Our suggestion is below with a Cornmeal for Fish Fry that is lightly sprinkled on. Seasonings are up to you but typically we will just use a pinch of salt and Old bay.

When choosing an oil for frying fish, consider the following tips: Use an oil with a high smoke point above 350°F to prevent the oil from breaking down and producing off-flavors. Ensure that the oil is fresh and hasn’t been used for multiple frying sessions. Maintain the oil at the correct temperature to achieve crispy, evenly cooked fish.

Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and the type you’re frying. Experiment with different ones to discover which one complements your preferred seasoning and flavor profile.

How long does it take to cook swai?

Cook time will depend on how thick and large your pieces are of course. Typically this variety isn’t very large or thick and 2 minutes on each side is about right, if you add when the oil is nice and hot and not before. Always plan to set on paper towels to absorb excess oil for the ideal crispy results when done.

How to Fry Swai Fish without Flour

• In a skillet with high sides pour in about 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium high heat until it reaches 360 degrees F.
• Mix together Fish Fry Seasoning.
• Blot fish with a paper towel to remove water from outside.
• Sprinkle seasonings on both sides.
• Put corn flour into a shallow bowl, lay seasoned fillet inside and gently press. Flip over so it is coated.
• When oil is hot add fish fillets without overlapping.
• Fry for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown on both sides and middle is flaky white.

How do you know when fried fish is done?

When frying fish on the stove, or for a Fish Fry, it’s essential to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to prevent food-borne illnesses. The mild flavor allows it to pair well with various seasonings, herbs, and sauces. You don’t need much either as a bit of salt and pepper will certainly do with a lemon squeeze at the end.

Tips

Always make sure that the oil is hot before adding any food. We talk all about How Hot Should Oil be for Fried Chicken which is the same for seafood. If food just sits in there without immediately frying it will absorb in, taste awful, be heavy and not give you a good result.

How to store leftovers

If you have leftovers, cool, store in freezer bags and keep in fridge overnight. Reheat Fried Fish in Air Fryer the next day for lunch!