Crispy Fried Fish

Here’s a delicious recipe for Crispy Fried Fish—golden on the outside, tender and flaky inside:

Crispy Fried Fish

Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or snapper)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup cold sparkling water (or cold club soda)

• Oil, for deep frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fish

   • Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.

   • Lightly season with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Make the batter

   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

   • Slowly whisk in cold sparkling water until you have a smooth, thick batter (like pancake batter).

3. Heat the oil

   • Pour oil into a deep frying pan or pot, about 2 inches deep.

   • Heat to 350°F (175°C).

4. Fry the fish

   • Dip each fillet into the batter, letting excess drip off.

   • Carefully lower into hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4–6 minutes per side (depending on thickness).

   • Do not overcrowd the pan—fry in batches.

5. Drain & Serve

   • Remove fish with tongs or a slotted spoon.

   • Place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

   • Serve hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or spicy aioli.

✨ Tips for Extra Crispiness:

• Always use cold sparkling water for the batter.

• Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.

• Serve immediately for the crunchiest results.