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Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish
Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with a little salt and pepper. Set the fillets aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal (if using), baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix the dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the cold water or club soda. Gradually whisk the liquid into the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth. The consistency should be slightly thick but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
3. Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when a drop of batter sizzles and rises to the top immediately.
4. Fry the Fish
Dip each fish fillet into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess batter and carefully place the fillet into the hot oil. Fry 2-3 fillets at a time, depending on the size of your pan, to avoid overcrowding.
Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the fillets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve
Serve your golden fried fish hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Pair it with tartar sauce, coleslaw, fries, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Fish
- Keep the batter cold: Using cold water or club soda helps to create a lighter, crispier batter. You can even chill the batter in the fridge for 10 minutes before frying.
- Avoid overcrowding: Fry in batches to ensure the fish cooks evenly and maintains its crispy coating.
- Test the oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fish will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. Aim for a temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
- Try different seasonings: Feel free to customize the batter with additional spices like cayenne for heat, or herbs like parsley for added flavor.
Variations
- Beer Batter: For a richer flavor, replace the water or club soda with a light beer. This gives the batter an extra depth of flavor and a crispier texture.
- Panko Crust: Instead of batter, coat the fish in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs for an ultra-crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for a gluten-free version that’s just as delicious.
Why Classic Golden Fried Fish Is a Family Favorite
Golden fried fish is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time, from beachside fish shacks to home kitchens. Its combination of crispy coating and tender fish is irresistible, making it a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Whether you serve it with traditional sides like fries and coleslaw or something lighter like a salad, it’s always a hit.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Golden Fried Fish recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal. With a few simple ingredients and an easy frying method, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So next time you’re in the mood for something crispy and delicious, give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried fish!