Korean Pan Fried Fish (생선전)
Corey Wong
Total Cost: ~$8.75 | Serves: 2 | Time: 20–25 mins
Growing up, pan-fried fish was one of those simple meals that always felt comforting. This version is inspired by the Korean style of lightly battered fish (saengseon jeon), where the fillets are dusted with flour, coated in egg, and pan-fried until beautifully golden. The light crust keeps the fish tender while adding just the right amount of crispness. Paired with microwave rice, it's an easy, budget-friendly dinner that comes together in under half an hour.
Ingredients + Where I Got Them
| Ingredient | Store | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tilapia fillets (2) | Lidl | ~$4.99 |
| Eggs (2) | Lidl | ~$0.68 |
| All-purpose flour | Lidl | ~$0.15 |
| Microwave rice (2 bowls) | H-Mart | ~$2.49 |
| Salt & black pepper | Pantry | Minimal |
| Cooking oil | Pantry | Minimal |
Note: You'll only use a small amount of flour for coating the fish, so the bag will last through countless future recipes.
Instructions
Prepare the Fish
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
Spread a thin layer of flour onto a plate and lightly coat each fillet, shaking off any excess.
In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
Dip each floured fillet into the beaten egg, coating both sides evenly.
Pan-Fry the Fish
Heat a thin layer of cooking oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Carefully place the coated fish into the pan.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the egg coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Transfer to a plate.
Heat the Rice
Microwave the rice according to the package directions, usually about 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
Fluff with a fork.
Assemble
Divide the rice between two plates.
Serve each with a golden pan-fried tilapia fillet.
Enjoy immediately while the fish is still crisp and warm.
Price Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Tilapia: ~$2.50
- Egg: ~$0.34
- Flour: ~$0.08
- Microwave rice: ~$1.25
Total per serving: ~$4.17
Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes that proves comfort food doesn't have to be complicated. The flour and egg create the signature light coating that makes Korean pan-fried fish so satisfying—crispy around the edges while keeping the tilapia flaky and tender inside. Served with a bowl of warm rice, it's an affordable, comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and one I'll keep coming back to whenever I want something simple and homemade.
