A traditional Baja California dish — Tacos de Pescado Estilo Ensenada are the original fish taco, born in the port city of Ensenada where the boats land rock cod every morning. Strips of white fish in a light beer batter are fried until golden, then tucked into corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and pico de gallo. The combination of crunchy, creamy, and bright is why this taco conquered the world.
Tacos de Pescado Estilo Ensenada
A traditional Baja California dish — Tacos de Pescado Estilo Ensenada are the original fish taco, born in the port city of Ensenada where the boats land rock cod every morning.

Step by stepInstructions
- Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt, then whisk in the ice-cold beer to a smooth batter the consistency of thin pancake batter; rest it for ten minutes.
- Season the fish strips with salt and pat them dry.
- Heat an inch of oil in a heavy skillet until a drop of batter sizzles and floats immediately.
- Dip the fish in the batter, let the excess drip off, and fry in small batches until golden and crisp, about three to four minutes; drain on paper towels.
- Warm the tortillas on a hot comal.
- Layer each taco with fish, cabbage, a drizzle of crema, and pico de gallo; serve with lime wedges.
💡 Chef tips & storage
The batter must be ice-cold and the oil hot — that contrast is what gives Ensenada tacos their signature crunch. Shred the cabbage very fine, as the street stands do.

Join the conversation
Only members can comment — it takes a few seconds to create a free account.
Log in Create an account