The Mr. Orange Taco from Torchy's Tacos features crispy fried fish, fresh avocado slices, tangy cabbage slaw, and a zesty orange-habanero sauce, all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla, delivering a vibrant mix of textures and bold citrus flavors.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Slotted spoon
- Sauce bottle or squeeze bottle
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate or sheet pan (for resting fried fish)
- Paper towels
- Tortilla warmer or skillet
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 avocados
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1-2 habanero peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 corn tortillas
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Use fresh, firm white fish fillets like tilapia or cod to ensure a crispy texture when fried. Coat the fish thoroughly in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika for optimal flavor and crunch. When preparing the orange-habanero sauce, balance the citrus zest and juice of the orange with the heat from 1-2 habanero peppers to avoid overpowering spiciness. Keep avocado slices fresh by adding them just before serving to maintain their creamy texture and vibrant color. You'll find the Mr. Orange Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu delivers a perfect blend of crispy fish, tangy slaw, and zesty sauce wrapped in warm corn tortillas.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Cut fish fillets into taco-sized strips.
- Set up breading stations: one bowl flour + ½ tsp salt + ½ tsp pepper, one bowl beaten eggs, one bowl panko breadcrumbs + ½ tsp salt + ½ tsp pepper + paprika.
- Dredge fish strips in flour, dip in egg, coat in panko mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry fish strips in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Slice avocados.
- In a bowl, mix cabbage, cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt for slaw.
- For sauce: Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, orange zest, orange juice, finely minced habanero (to taste), and salt in a bowl until smooth. Pour into squeeze bottle.
- Warm corn tortillas in skillet or tortilla warmer until pliable.
- Assemble tacos: place fried fish, cabbage slaw, and avocado slices on each tortilla.
- Drizzle with orange-habanero sauce.
- Serve with lime wedges on a platter.
Substitution
The Mr. Orange Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu delivers a crisp, flavorful experience with its combination of fried white fish, fresh avocado, tangy cabbage slaw, and zesty orange-habanero sauce. If you don't have access to fresh habanero peppers, substitute with a milder chili like jalapeno or serrano to adjust the heat level without losing the essential flavor profile. Use gluten-free flour and panko alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining the texture of the fried fish. When fresh corn tortillas are unavailable, warmed flour tortillas can be used, though this will slightly alter the traditional taste. Your tortilla warmer or a hot skillet will help keep tortillas pliable and warm for wrapping.
Tips
Ensure the vegetable oil maintains a steady temperature of 350degF (175degC) throughout frying to achieve perfectly crispy fish without sogginess. Use separate bowls for flour, egg, and panko breading to create a consistent, even coating that adheres well during frying. Keep fried fish on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and retain crispness. When assembling, warm tortillas just enough to make them pliable without drying out, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of your Mr. Orange Taco.
Nutritions
The Mr. Orange Taco delivers a balanced combination of lean protein from white fish fillets and healthy fats from avocado slices, supporting muscle repair and heart health. The cabbage slaw adds fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin C and K, while the orange-habanero sauce contributes antioxidants and a metabolism boost thanks to capsaicin in habanero peppers. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free carbohydrate source, providing energy without excess calories. You can enjoy these tacos as a nutrient-rich meal that blends taste with wholesome ingredients for overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover Mr. Orange Tacos components separately to maintain freshness and texture; keep the fried fish in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil, and refrigerate promptly. Place avocado slices in a sealed container with a squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning, while the cabbage slaw and orange-habanero sauce should be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When reheating, avoid microwaving the tortillas and fried fish together; instead, warm tortillas in a skillet and gently reheat fish in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap white fish fillets like tilapia or cod with halibut or catfish for a firmer texture and richer flavor. Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed tortilla chips or cornmeal for extra crunch and a hint of corn flavor in your fried fish. To tone down the heat in the orange-habanero sauce, substitute habanero peppers with jalapenos or remove seeds before mincing to control your preferred spice level. Try grilling the fish strips instead of frying to make a lighter, healthier taco option that still retains great flavor.
Allergies
The Mr. Orange Taco contains several common allergens, including fish and eggs, which are present in the fried fish fillets and the batter mixture respectively. The mayonnaise used in the orange-habanero sauce may contain eggs as well, so check ingredient labels if you have allergies. Your allergy sensitivity to spicy habanero peppers should also be considered, as they can cause irritation or allergic reactions for some individuals.
Why this recipe?
The Mr. Orange Taco from Torchy's Tacos features a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors, combining fried chicken with creamy avocado and a zesty salsa that excites taste buds. Its unique blend of crispy texture and fresh ingredients makes this taco a standout item on the menu, appealing to both spice lovers and casual diners. You will find that making a copycat version at home allows customization of spice levels and freshness, ensuring each bite matches your personal preferences. Replicating this taco gives you a delicious, cost-effective way to enjoy Torchy's signature taste anytime.