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Congrio Frito (Fried Conger Eel)

Chilean Congrio Frito (Fried Conger Eel)

Crispy conger eel fillets coated in seasoned flour and breadcrumbs, fried until golden and served with lemon wedges and traditional Chilean sides.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine Chilean
Servings 4
Calories 286 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels​
  • Three shallow dishes
  • Whisk
  • Skillet or frying pan​
  • Tongs
  • Plate with paper towels
  • Filleting knife (if needed)
  • Thermometer (optional for oil temperature)

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fresh conger eel fillets about 6 oz each
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon sliced into wedges
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the fillets by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the coating adheres better. If needed, remove any remaining skin or bones using a filleting knife for smooth, even pieces.
  • In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices. This seasoned flour is the first layer of coating for the eel.
  • In a second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together until smooth. This mixture acts as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the fish.
  • In a third dish, spread the breadcrumbs evenly. For added texture and flavour, you can use panko breadcrumbs or mix in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Coat each conger eel fillet in the seasoned flour, ensuring all sides are evenly dusted. Dip the fillet into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off before pressing it firmly into the breadcrumbs. Repeat for all fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Allow the oil to reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately without burning.
  • Gently place the coated conger eel fillets into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each fillet for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Use tongs to carefully flip the fillets halfway through cooking. Once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  • Serve the crispy fried conger eel hot with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish. Pair it with traditional Chilean sides such as pebre salsa, ensalada chilena (Chilean tomato and onion salad), or freshly baked marraqueta bread for an authentic meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 286kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 11gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 87mgSodium: 824mgPotassium: 233mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 465IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 122mgIron: 4mg
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