Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce A Restaurant Quality Dish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is important for ensuring the coating sticks well and the fillets fry up crisp.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Fish

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In another shallow dish, pour the buttermilk (or regular milk).

Dip each cod fillet into the buttermilk first, making sure it’s coated evenly. Then, dredge the fillet in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. Repeat this process with all the fillets.

Step 3: Fry the Cod

In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small bit of the flour mixture into the oil—it should sizzle), carefully add the coated cod fillets to the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

Use tongs to flip the fish gently, ensuring the fillets cook evenly. Once the fish is crispy and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C), remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the cod is frying, it’s time to prepare the lemon butter sauce. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the butter, and stir to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for another minute, letting the flavors meld together. If desired, you can also add a pinch of lemon zest for extra citrusy brightness.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

To serve, place the fried cod fillets on a plate and spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness. You can also serve the fish with a side of lemon wedges for those who want an additional tangy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement the rich, crispy fish and tangy sauce. Here are a few suggestions to round out the meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced and nutritious side.
• Mashed Potatoes or Rice: Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried cod.
• Garlic Bread: For those who love a little extra indulgence, serve this dish with some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Cod

• Use Fresh Cod: Fresh, high-quality cod will yield the best results. If you can, purchase your fish from a trusted fishmonger to ensure freshness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fish in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish.
• Adjust the Coating: If you prefer an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the fish. Simply dip the fillets in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice for an even thicker, crunchier crust.
• Control the Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough (but not smoking) when frying the fish. If the oil is too cool, the fillets will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Conclusion

This Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a true showstopper. It’s simple to make yet feels indulgent and restaurant-quality—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crispy fried cod fillets paired with the rich and tangy lemon butter sauce create a harmonious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

So, next time you’re craving seafood, skip the restaurant and bring the flavor home with this easy, delicious recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and some care in the preparation, you’ll have a dish that’s worthy of the finest seafood restaurants. Enjoy!