Batter Fried Fish
Batter fried fish offers a crispy, golden exterior with tender, flavorful fish inside. Perfect for casual dinners or fish fry gatherings, this dish pairs well with tartar sauce or lemon wedges. Its crunchy coating and moist interior make it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the egg into a 1-quart bowl.
- Beat the egg slightly.
- Add milk to the egg and stir.
- In a separate container, combine cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry mixture to the milk-egg mixture while stirring.
- Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the batter and stir.
- Add enough flour to the batter to form a thin consistency (about 1 cup).
- Cut the fish into approximately 2-inch squares.
- Season the fish with salt to taste.
- Preheat oil in a deep fryer.
- Test the oil by dropping a 1-inch cube of bread; it should brown to golden in a few seconds.
- Dip the fish pieces into the flour, then into the batter.
- Fry the coated fish in deep fat until golden brown.
- Avoid overcooking the fish.
- Fry only 3 or 4 pieces at a time to prevent overcrowding.
- Drain the fried fish on paper towels.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the batter. If you're out of cornmeal, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Ensure your oil is hot enough to avoid greasy fish; use a thermometer for accuracy. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the batter-fried fish hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and tartar sauce for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with coleslaw or a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with fries or rice and browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Batter Fried Fish contains roughly 476 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value) and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1579mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia. Just ensure the fish is fresh and cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Each type will offer a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is safe for fish. Avoid overcooking as it can lead to dryness.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It's best to prepare the batter fresh, as it can lose its light texture over time. If needed, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and combine them with the wet ingredients just before frying for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).