Description
Crispy, golden-fried cod nestled in a soft, toasted bun with tangy tartar sauce, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes—this sandwich is a taste of the coast no matter where you are. Perfectly crunchy and packed with flavor, this homemade version outshines any fast-food fish sandwich. Get ready for a bite of nostalgia!
Ingredients
For the Crispy Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (4–6 ounces each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold club soda (or sparkling water)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sandwich:
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or Kaiser rolls)
- ¼ cup tartar sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
- 4 slices of tomato
- 4 slices of pickles (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- Coleslaw
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Cheese (American, cheddar, or Swiss)
For Homemade Tartar Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Tartar Sauce (Optional):
- Mix mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the Crispy Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually whisk in cold club soda until smooth (pancake batter consistency).
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
- Fry the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry, then dip into the batter, coating fully.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Toast the Buns:
- Lightly butter and toast the buns in a skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread tartar sauce on the bottom bun.
- Add shredded lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
- Place the crispy cod fillet on top and close with the top bun.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges. Pair with fries or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Notes
- Keep the batter cold for extra crispiness.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
- To keep fried fish crispy, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American