Captain D’s Batter Dipped Fish is a beloved dish known for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, flaky fish inside. This recipe replicates the iconic fast-food favorite, providing a perfect homemade alternative. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cod, hake, or other white fish
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Cut Fish:
- Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into serving-size pieces, about 2-3 inches wide.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Add Water:
- Gradually add the water to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Heat Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Step 4: Fry the Fish
- Coat Fish:
- Dip each piece of fish into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before carefully placing the fish into the hot oil.
- Fry Fish:
- Fry the fish in batches, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Cook each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy and the fish is cooked through. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Drain Fish:
- 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
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the batter-dipped fish hot with your favorite dipping sauces, lemon wedges, and side dishes like coleslaw, fries, or hush puppies.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Fish: Fresh or thawed fish fillets work best for this recipe. Cod, haddock, or tilapia are great options.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil at the correct temperature is crucial for a crispy exterior. Too low and the fish will absorb too much oil; too high and the batter will burn before the fish cooks through.
- Dry Fish: Ensure the fish is completely dry before dipping in the batter to help the batter adhere better.
Variations
Spicy Batter Dipped Fish
- Add Spice:
- Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of paprika and black pepper to the batter for an extra kick.
Herb Batter Dipped Fish
- Add Herbs:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill into the batter for added flavor.
Beer Battered Fish
- Use Beer:
- Substitute the water with your favorite beer for a classic beer-battered fish. The carbonation in the beer helps create a light, crispy batter.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Fries:
- Serve with crispy French fries for a classic fish and chips meal.
- With Coleslaw:
- Pair with creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the crispy fish.
With Beverages
- With Soda:
- Enjoy with a cold soda or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
- With Beer:
- Pair with a cold beer, especially if you made the beer batter version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time? A: It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time. Add the water just before you’re ready to fry the fish.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze batter-dipped fish? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked fish. Let it cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Q: What if I don’t have cornstarch? A: You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of additional flour, though the batter may not be as crispy.
Q: Can I use a different type of fish? A: Yes, you can use any firm white fish fillets like haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
Captain D’s Batter Dipped Fish is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, golden-brown batter and tender, flaky fish, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this batter-dipped fish is always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
