Batter Dipped Fried Fish Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction
Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Notes
Variations
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the classic taste of Batter Dipped Fried Fish—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. This recipe is easy to make at home, giving you that golden, restaurant-quality fish fry experience without needing to leave your kitchen. With a light, airy batter and perfectly seasoned fish, this dish is ideal for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or any time you’re craving a little comfort food.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to create this delicious fried fish, including detailed instructions, cooking tips, and keto-friendly alternatives.

Ingredients

For the Batter Dipped Fried Fish:

1 1/2 lbs white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup cold sparkling water (or beer for extra flavor)
Vegetable oil for frying

For Serving:

Lemon wedges
Tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Gradually add the cold sparkling water (or beer) while whisking until the batter is smooth and has a thick consistency. The batter should be thick enough to coat the fish but not too runny.
Pat Dry the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the batter stick better and ensure a crispy coating.
Dip and Fry: Working in batches, dip each fish fillet into the batter, ensuring it is completely coated. Carefully place the coated fish into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Turn the fillets halfway through cooking if necessary. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
Drain: Remove the fried fish from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Notes

Oil Temperature: It’s important to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) throughout the cooking process. If the oil is too hot, the batter will burn before the fish is cooked. If it’s too cold, the batter will absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy texture.
Cold Batter: Keep the batter cold by using chilled sparkling water or beer. The cold batter helps to create a light, crispy coating when it hits the hot oil.
Type of Fish: Cod, haddock, or tilapia are great choices for this recipe, but feel free to use your favorite mild white fish.

Variations

Beer-Battered Fish: Substitute the sparkling water with a light beer for a deeper flavor. The carbonation in the beer adds extra lightness to the batter.
Spicy Fried Fish: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
Herbed Fish Batter: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives into the batter for extra flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

To make this Batter Dipped Fried Fish keto-friendly or low-carb, here are some adjustments:

Batter Substitute: Replace the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with almond flour and unflavored whey protein powder for a low-carb batter. Mix them with sparkling water or a low-carb beer to maintain the crispy texture.
Frying Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil, which is suitable for keto and has healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Frozen Fish?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before battering and frying to ensure a crispy result.

How Do I Keep the Fish Crispy?

To keep the fish crispy, place the fried fillets on a wire rack instead of a plate. This allows the excess oil to drain properly and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Can I Reheat Leftover Fried Fish?

Yes, you can reheat fried fish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until it is heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

What Should I Serve with Fried Fish?

Serve with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. Lemon wedges and tartar sauce are also traditional accompaniments that complement the flavor of the fish beautifully.

This Batter Dipped Fried Fish recipe brings the taste of a classic fish fry right into your own kitchen. With its perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and tender, flaky fish, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, everyone will love the combination of flavors and textures.

Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of homemade fried fish that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and find your favorite version!