Few things are as satisfying as crispy, golden Batter Dipped Fried Fish. This recipe is a classic favorite, perfect for seafood lovers craving a delicious fish fry. The fish is coated in a light, flavorful batter that fries up perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping the fish tender and juicy on the inside. Ideal for a family dinner, fish and chips night, or a special treat, this batter dipped fried fish is sure to be a hit. Serve it with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup cold sparkling water or club soda
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Tartar sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish
   • Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and paprika. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water or club soda until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
3. Heat the Oil
   • In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or test with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle immediately.
4. Dip and Fry the Fish
   • Working in batches, dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully lower the battered fish into the hot oil.
   • Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
   • Remove the fish from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve
   • Serve the fried fish immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side. Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as French fries or coleslaw.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature (350°F) is crucial for getting a crispy crust without making the fish greasy. Use a thermometer for best results.
• Cold Batter: Using cold sparkling water or club soda helps create a light, crispy batter. Make sure to keep it cold until you’re ready to fry.
• Dry the Fish: Patting the fish dry before dipping in the batter ensures the batter adheres better and fries up crispy.

Recipe Variations

• Beer Batter: Replace the sparkling water with cold beer for a deeper flavor and extra crispy coating.
• Herb-Infused Batter: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like dill or parsley to the batter for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen fish fillets? A: Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure to fully thaw them and pat them dry before using.

Q: How do I keep the fried fish warm while cooking in batches? A: You can keep the fried fish warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you fry the remaining batches. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet so they stay crispy.

Q: Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying? A: Yes, you can air fry the fish, but the texture may be slightly different. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the battered fish for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

This Batter Dipped Fried Fish recipe delivers perfectly crispy and tender fish that is ideal for a casual dinner or a special fish fry night. With its simple yet flavorful batter, this fried fish is sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides, like fries or coleslaw, and don’t forget the tartar sauce and lemon wedges. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and flaky goodness of homemade fried fish!