Ingredients:
For the Tilapia:
- 2 large tilapia filets
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp lard for frying
For the Tortilla Chips:
- 6 white corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp lard for frying
- 1 tsp garlic salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Tilapia:
1. In a small bowl, mix cumin, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pat the tilapia filets dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the filets.
3. Sprinkle the orange and lemon zest over the filets.
4. Heat 2 tbsp of lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Once the lard is hot, add the tilapia filets to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove the tilapia from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tortilla Chips:
1. Cut the white corn tortillas into triangles (typically, each tortilla can be cut into 6-8 triangles).
2. Heat 2 tbsp of lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Once the lard is hot, add the tortilla triangles in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
4. Fry the tortillas for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove the chips from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. While still hot, sprinkle the chips with garlic salt.
3. Prepare the Topping:
1. In a small bowl, combine the diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped chives.
4. Assemble and Serve:
1. Place the cooked tilapia filets on serving plates.
2. Top each filet with the red bell pepper, tomato, and chive mixture.
3. Serve with a side of homemade white corn tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy cumin-tilapia with homemade tortilla chips and fresh salsa!