Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich – A Must-Try Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious, crispy, and perfectly satisfying sandwich, look no further than this Crispy Fried Cod Fish Sandwich. It’s a delightful combination of crispy, golden cod fillets nestled between a soft bun with tangy tartar sauce, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. This sandwich is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a casual lunch, dinner, or hosting a family gathering. The crunchy coating on the cod adds an irresistible texture, while the freshness of the veggies and the creamy tartar sauce make every bite mouthwateringly delicious. Simple to make, this recipe elevates the classic fish sandwich to a whole new level. You can easily prepare it at home with minimal ingredients, and it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. So, whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, this crispy fried cod sandwich is the perfect choice to satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich is loved for its balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, golden cod fillet is perfectly seasoned and fried, providing that irresistible crunch. Paired with fresh, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and homemade tartar sauce, this sandwich becomes a treat for your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of fried fish or just looking for a tasty meal, this sandwich is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It’s a fun, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

For the Cod

• Cod fillets
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cold club soda
• Vegetable oil

For the Sandwich

• Sandwich buns
• Tartar sauce
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes
• Pickles (optional)
• Lemon wedges

Optional Toppings

• Coleslaw
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Cheese

For Homemade Tartar Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Pickle relish
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Spicy Cod Sandwich: For a spicy kick, add extra cayenne pepper to the batter or drizzle some hot sauce on the sandwich.
• Grilled Cod: For a lighter version, you can grill the cod fillets instead of frying them.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the cod with a crispy, breaded cauliflower steak or a plant-based fish fillet to make it vegetarian.
• Additional Sauces: You can use other sauces like sriracha mayo or garlic aioli for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce (Optional)

Start by making the tartar sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold club soda until the batter is smooth but not overmixed.

Step 3: Preheat the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be heated to 350°F for perfect frying.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Dip each fillet into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated. Carefully fry the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Remove the cod from the oil and set aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a separate pan or under a broiler until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and any optional toppings you prefer. Place the crispy fried cod fillet on top, then add the other half of the bun.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sandwiches immediately, garnished with lemon wedges. You can also pair them with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure the Oil is Hot: Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying. If the oil is too cold, the batter will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can make it dense and heavy. Gently mix until just combined.
• Drain the Cod: After frying, let the cod drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil, keeping the fish crispy.
• Make Homemade Tartar Sauce: While store-bought tartar sauce is convenient, homemade tartar sauce adds extra flavor and creaminess to the sandwich.

How to Serve

This crispy fried cod sandwich can be served with a variety of sides, including:

• Fries: Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries complement the fish sandwich perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch to balance out the richness of the fried cod.
• Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover fried cod, store the fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the fish crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked cod fillets for up to 1 month. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat the leftover fried cod, place it on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any firm white fish, such as haddock or tilapia, in place of cod.

2. Is the batter gluten-free?

The batter in this recipe contains flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw it completely before frying for best results.

4. How do I make the tartar sauce spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate a little sriracha sauce or chopped jalapeños into the tartar sauce.

5. Can I make the cod ahead of time?

While the fried cod is best served fresh, you can prepare the batter and tartar sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.

6. How do I keep the fish crispy?

To maintain the crispiness of the fried cod, avoid covering it with a lid. You can also reheat it in the oven or air fryer to restore the crunch.

7. Can I air fry the cod instead of deep-frying it?

Yes, you can air fry the cod fillets for a healthier version. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

8. Can I add cheese to the sandwich?

Absolutely! A slice of cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese would be a great addition.

9. Can I use a different type of sauce?

Yes, feel free to try different sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.

10. How can I make this sandwich even more flavorful?

Add a drizzle of hot sauce, a few slices of avocado, or pickled onions for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich is a delicious, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy, golden cod, creamy tartar sauce, and fresh veggies, it’s a dish that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you serve it with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad, this sandwich will become a family favorite in no time. So, try making it today and enjoy a mouthwatering, crispy delight!

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