Smoky Lager-Battered Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-10 · Updated 2026-05-10

Crisp fish tacos made with Modelo beer batter, topped with a fresh cilantro lime slaw for bright contrast. This Mexican-inspired seafood recipe, ready in about 35 minutes, pairs white fish fillets (cod or tilapia), Modelo beer, all-purpose flour for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, cut into 3-inch pieces white fish fillets (cod or tilapia)
• 1 cup, cold Modelo beer
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• for frying, about 3 cups vegetable oil
• 2 cups, finely shredded green cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Nonstick skillets worth buying → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1 tsp salt. Gradually add 1 cup cold Modelo beer, whisking until batter is smooth and slightly thick.
2. Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F, about 3 cups oil.
3. Step 3: Dip 1 lb white fish pieces into the beer batter, letting excess drip off, and carefully lower into hot oil. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups finely shredded green cabbage, 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss until slaw is well coated and fresh.
5. Step 5: Warm 8 small corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos by placing fried fish pieces inside tortillas and topping with cilantro lime slaw. Serve immediately.