Galilee Style Whole Fried Fish

Name: Galilee-Style Whole Fried Fish
Ingredients: 2 branzini, porgy, or other whole fish (1½ lb. each), gutted and cleaned; 1⁄4 cup plus 1½ tsp. kosher salt, divided; 1⁄4 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped; 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 long hot chile or jalapeño, minced; 2 tbsp. olive oil, plus more as needed; 3 medium lemons, halved, plus 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice; 1 1⁄2 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper; 1 1⁄2 tsp. cumin seeds; 1 1⁄2 tsp. sweet paprika; 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups corn, vegetable, or canola oil