Do frozen tilapia fillets need to be thawed before preparing them for baking?

Here's why:

* Uneven Cooking: Baking frozen fillets will result in uneven cooking. The outside will cook quickly while the inside remains frozen.

* Tough Texture: Frozen fish will cook more toughly than thawed fish.

* Safety: Baking frozen fish increases the risk of bacteria growth.

How to Thaw Tilapia:

* Refrigerator: This is the safest method. Place fillets in the refrigerator overnight.

* Cold Water: Submerge fillets in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This method takes about 30-60 minutes.

* Microwave: Use the defrost setting, but be sure to check the fish frequently to avoid overcooking.

Once your tilapia is thawed, you can bake it according to your favorite recipe.