Batter Dipped Fried Fish

How to Make Batter Dipped Fried Fish

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat dry the fish fillets with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the batter stick better and ensures a crispier result.
2. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using) for added flavor. Let the fish sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasonings.

Step 2: Make the Batter

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. These dry ingredients will give your batter a rich flavor and a nice, golden color once fried.
4. Gradually add cold sparkling water (or cold beer for a more flavorful batter) to the flour mixture, stirring gently until you get a smooth batter. The batter should be thick but pourable—similar to pancake batter. For an even lighter batter, you can add an ice cube or two to keep it cold (cold batter ensures a crisp texture when fried).

Step 3: Heat the Oil

5. Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or Dutch oven, filling it about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it bubbles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is hot enough.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Fish

6. Dredge each piece of fish in a light coating of flour. This step helps the batter stick to the fish and prevents it from sliding off when frying.
7. Dip the flour-dusted fish fillets into the batter, making sure they are fully coated. Lift them carefully to allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them in the hot oil.
8. Fry the fish in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 4-5 minutes or until the batter is golden brown and crispy, and the fish is cooked through. The fish should be opaque and flaky when cut into. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fish from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

9. Serve the crispy batter-dipped fried fish immediately while it’s hot and fresh. You can pair it with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, and a wedge of lemon, or add a drizzle of tartar sauce for extra flavor.
10. For a fun twist, serve the fried fish in tacos with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, or serve it alongside a zesty mango salsa for a tropical flair.

Tips for the Perfect Batter Dipped Fried Fish

1. Keep the Batter Cold: The key to a crispy coating is cold batter. Cold sparkling water or beer creates a light, airy texture when fried, and ice cubes can help maintain a chilled batter. This helps create a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the fish inside tender.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fish in batches to ensure that the temperature of the oil remains consistent. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to greasy fish instead of crispy fried goodness.
3. Use the Right Fish: The best fish for frying is one that is mild in flavor with a flaky texture. Cod, haddock, tilapia, and pollock are all great choices. These fish have a delicate texture that complements the crispy batter without overpowering the flavor.
4. Drain Excess Oil: After frying, make sure to drain the fish on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This will keep the fish from becoming greasy and help preserve its crispy texture.
5. Flavor Variations: You can spice up your batter by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper for heat, or experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, or dill to infuse more flavor into the coating.
6. Use a Thermometer: A candy or deep-frying thermometer is a great tool for ensuring the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F). Too hot, and the batter will burn; too cold, and the batter will be greasy and soggy.

What to Serve with Batter Dipped Fried Fish

• French fries: A classic companion to fried fish. Try crispy crinkle-cut fries or sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
• Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw perfectly complements the crispy fried fish.
• Lemon wedges: A fresh squeeze of lemon brings brightness and enhances the flavors of the fish.
• Tartar sauce: A creamy and tangy tartar sauce is the perfect dip for fried fish.
• Corn on the cob: The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the savory fish.

Why You’ll Love Batter Dipped Fried Fish

Batter Dipped Fried Fish is a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s a fun, easy way to enjoy fried fish at home, with a batter that’s light, crispy, and perfectly golden. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it!

Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or as part of a larger seafood feast, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seafood without the hassle of a heavy, greasy crust.

Conclusion

If you love crispy fried fish, this batter-dipped fried fish recipe is the one for you. With its golden, crunchy exterior and tender fish interior, it’s a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the coast. The crispy batter, the perfectly cooked fish, and the simplicity of the recipe all make for a fantastic meal. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a delicious, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight—you won’t be disappointed!