Crispy Fried Cod Fish Sandwich Recipe

A crispy fried cod sandwich is the perfect combination of tender, flaky fish with a crunchy, golden batter and all the fresh toppings nestled in a soft bun. This sandwich delivers both comfort and satisfaction with each bite. The cod fillets are dipped in a light and crispy batter, fried to perfection, and then served with a tangy homemade tartar sauce. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles (optional), this sandwich is the ideal meal for seafood lovers. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner, lunch, or even a weekend BBQ, this dish will surely be a hit.

The best part of this crispy fried cod fish sandwich is its versatility. You can customize it by adding a variety of toppings like coleslaw, sliced red onions, or even cheese. Serve it with some crispy fries, a side of coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you’re craving seafood that’s crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, this cod sandwich is the way to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Flavorful

The light batter and seasoned cod fillets create a satisfying crunch, perfectly balanced with the tender fish inside.

2. Quick and Easy

This sandwich comes together quickly, with the frying process taking just a few minutes for crispy perfection.

3. Homemade Tartar Sauce

Making your own tartar sauce gives it a fresh, tangy kick that elevates the sandwich to the next level.

4. Customizable

Add any extra toppings like coleslaw, cheese, or onions to suit your personal taste.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a weekend treat, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Cod

• Cod fillets (4-6 ounces each)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Cold club soda
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sandwich

• Sandwich buns
• Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomato
• 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: Add extra cayenne pepper to the batter or drizzle sriracha sauce on the sandwich for some added heat.
• Coleslaw: For a tangy crunch, add a generous spoonful of coleslaw on top of the fried cod.
• Cheese: Melt a slice of cheddar or American cheese over the fried cod for a cheesy twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the batter to make it gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce (Optional)

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in cold club soda until the batter is smooth, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Preheat the Oil

In a deep pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s ready for frying.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet into the prepared batter, coating it evenly. Fry the fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish from the oil and drain on a paper towel.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

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

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom bun. Layer with shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, and optional toppings like pickles or coleslaw. Place the fried cod fillet on top and cover with the other bun half.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sandwich immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pat the Fish Dry: Make sure to pat the cod fillets dry before dipping them into the batter to ensure the batter adheres better and fries crispier.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense coating. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Maintain the Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil stays at a consistent temperature around 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the cod may burn before cooking through, and if it’s too cool, the batter might be soggy.
• Customize the Toppings: Add extra toppings like coleslaw, cheese, or thinly sliced red onions to suit your taste.

How to Serve

Serve the crispy fried cod sandwich immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a side of crispy French fries, a tangy coleslaw, or a refreshing green salad. This sandwich also goes great with a cold drink like iced tea, lemonade, or a craft beer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover fried cod fillets, store them separately from the sandwich components in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven (350°F) for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried cod fillets before assembling the sandwiches. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy.

Reheating

To reheat the assembled sandwiches, place the sandwich on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. The buns may soften when reheated, so if you prefer a crispier texture, consider toasting the buns again before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock.

2. How do I make the batter extra crispy?

The key to a crispy batter is using cold club soda and not overmixing the batter. The bubbles in the soda create a light, airy coating.

3. Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tartar sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it for the flavors to meld.

4. What kind of buns should I use?

Any soft sandwich bun works, but brioche or potato buns add a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the fried fish.

5. How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter or drizzle some hot sauce on the sandwich for an extra kick.

6. Can I fry the cod in advance?

It’s best to fry the cod fresh for the crispiest texture. If you need to prepare in advance, store the fried fish in the fridge and reheat in the oven to retain its crispiness.

7. Can I freeze the fried cod fillets?

Yes, you can freeze the fried cod fillets before assembling the sandwiches. Make sure to freeze them in a single layer to prevent sticking.

8. Can I use store-bought tartar sauce?

Yes, store-bought tartar sauce works, but homemade tartar sauce adds an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

9. How do I make the batter thicker?

If you prefer a thicker batter, simply add a little more flour or cornstarch until it reaches your desired consistency.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to make the batter gluten-free.

Conclusion

The crispy fried cod sandwich is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its perfectly battered fish, fresh toppings, and homemade tartar sauce, it’s a comforting meal that satisfies all the cravings. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this sandwich offers all the crispy, savory goodness you desire. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a truly indulgent meal!

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