Fried Fish Rounds: A Tradition from the Cuban Coasts

Fried fish rounds are part of those traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation in many Cuban homes. Thanks to a simple marinade and proper cooking, a dish with intense flavor is obtained, with a lightly crispy coating and tender meat that retains all its juiciness. Perfect to enjoy freshly made alongside the family’s favorite side dishes.

🐟 Ingredients:

  • 4 medium fish rounds (preferably sierra, serrucho, needlefish, or other similar fish)
  • 1 lemon (its juice)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
  • Salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 sprig fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

 

 

🧂 Step 1: Prepare the marinade

Place the fish rounds in a glass container and season them on both sides with salt and black pepper. Add the lemon juice and distribute it evenly over all the pieces.

Cover the container with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This resting time will allow the fish to better absorb the flavors of the marinade.

🥣 Step 2: Bread the fish wheels

Remove the fish from the refrigerator and let any accumulated marinade liquid drain well. Place the flour in a large bowl and beat the egg in another until smooth.

Dip each round first in the flour, then in the beaten egg, and again in the flour. Press lightly with your hands so the coating adheres well and the pieces remain as dry as possible before frying.

🔥 Step 3: Fry until perfectly cooked

Heat the oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. When hot but not smoking, carefully add the fish rounds, leaving enough space between them.

Fry each side for about one and a half to two minutes. Avoid moving them too early so they can brown properly and cook evenly.

Turn the pieces carefully and continue cooking until they reach an attractive golden color on both sides. Once ready, remove them from the pan and place them on paper towels to remove excess fat. If desired, before serving, you can place a sprig of finely chopped fresh parsley on top. These fish rounds achieve their best texture and flavor when served hot, straight from the kitchen.

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ℹ️ Useful Information:

  • Yields: 4 servings
  • Total time: 12 hours (marinating) + 20 minutes (breading) + 10 minutes (cooking)
  • Category: Fish & Seafood
  • Cuisine: Cuban

🍽️ Serving Recommendation:

These fish rounds pair wonderfully with Cuban white rice, a fresh seasonal salad, and delicious fried ripe plantains, making a complete meal that is highly representative of Cuban cuisine.


Have you ever prepared fried fish rounds? Tell us in the comments what type of fish you used and if you have any family trick for achieving a better result. Your experience can be very helpful to other readers.

🏷️ Tags: fried fish rounds, Cuban fried fish, Cuban recipes, battered fish, Creole cuisine, fish and seafood

For the Spanish version, visit: Ruedas de Pescado Frito: Doradas por Fuera, Jugosas por Dentro.