Pargo Frito (Crispy Fried Red Snapper)

Ingredients

Red snapper

1 (about 2 pounds), cleaned and scaled

Lime juice

3 tablespoons

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon

All-purpose flour

1/2 cup

Vegetable oil

1 cup, for frying

Cilantro

a handful, chopped

Lime wedges

for serving

Instructions

1. Rinse the red snapper under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this marinade all over the red snapper, making sure to coat the interior cavity as well.
3. Allow the red snapper to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, absorbing all the wonderful flavors.
4. After marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Dredge the marinated red snapper in the all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Carefully slide the red snapper into the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it turns a beautiful golden brown and the skin becomes crispy.
7. Use a large spatula to gently remove the fried red snapper from the skillet. Let it drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
8. Serve your Pargo Frito hot, accompanied by fresh lime wedges. Squeeze a lime wedge over the fish just before eating and garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
9. Enjoy your delicious culinary journey to Latin America!