Fried Fish Sandwich

Skip the drive-thru with this crunchy, flaky fried fish sandwich that knocks McDonald’s filet-o-fish out of the park. Fried to perfection and topped with homemade tartar sauce and fresh, crispy vegetables, this classic fried fish sandwich will be your new favorite for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll whip up this delicious sandwich in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The homemade blackened seasoning brings an explosion of flavor that elevates each bite.
• Versatile: Perfect for casual family dinners, game day snacks, or a fun weekend treat.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh veggies and homemade tartar sauce ensures a wholesome meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This fried fish sandwich is sure to impress everyone at the table, satisfying both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Tupperware or mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Paper towels
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying, ensuring even cooking and preventing overcrowding.
• Tupperware or mixing bowls: Perfect for setting up your dredging station efficiently without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for beating eggs evenly, ensuring better coating on the fish.

Ingredients

Skip the drive thru with this crunchy, flaky fried fish sandwich that knocks McDonald’s filet-o-fish out of the park. Fried to perfection topped with homemade tartar sauce and fresh, crispy vegetables, this classic fried fish sandwich will be your new favorite.

For the Fish

• Oil for frying
• 3 tablespoons (36g) homemade blackened seasoning
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (100g) panko breadcrumbs
• 3 eggs (beaten)
• 4 fresh cod filets
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling

• 4 Kaiser rolls
• 2 tablespoons (28g) butter (softened)
• Homemade tartar sauce
• Boston Bibb lettuce (washed and dried)
• 2 heirloom tomatoes (sliced)
• 1 onion (sliced)

How to Make Fried Fish Sandwich

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large skillet. Choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil to prevent burning.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Prepare three containers:
1. In one container, mix together homemade blackened seasoning and flour.
2. In another container, add panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a third container, beat the eggs.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish

Rinse the fish filets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensuring they are dry helps maintain texture when frying.

Step 4: Season and Dredge the Fish

Season filets with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Lightly coat each filet in flour.
2. Dip them completely in egg.
3. Finally, cover them thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Once the oil is hot:
1. Carefully add the coated filets to the oil.
2. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Toast the Rolls

In a separate skillet over high heat:
1. Spread softened butter on both halves of each Kaiser roll.
2. Grill until golden brown, about 1 minute per side.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwich

On each toasted bun:
1. Spread some homemade tartar sauce.
2. Layer on Boston Bibb lettuce, sliced heirloom tomatoes, and onions.
3. Add your crispy fried fish filet on top along with extra tartar sauce if desired.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Complete your meal by serving these sandwiches alongside homemade fries or classic potato chips for a delightful experience!

How to Serve Fried Fish Sandwich

Serving a fried fish sandwich can transform a simple meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

Classic Presentation

• Lettuce and Tomato: Crisp Boston Bibb lettuce and fresh heirloom tomatoes add crunch and flavor.
• Homemade Tartar Sauce: A generous spread of tartar sauce brings creamy goodness that complements the fish perfectly.

Gourmet Touch

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices lend a rich texture and healthy fats.
• Pickles: Adding dill pickles can give a tangy crunch that elevates the flavors.

On-the-Go Option

• Wrap It Up: For a quick meal, wrap the fried fish in a tortilla with lettuce and sauce for a portable option.
• Mini Sliders: Use smaller rolls to create sliders, perfect for parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Fried Fish Sandwich

Perfecting your fried fish sandwich takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is delicious.

• bold Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor and texture.
• bold Don’t Rush the Dredging: Make sure each filet is evenly coated for a consistent crunchy crust.
• bold Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil hot enough to fry without absorbing too much oil; use a thermometer if needed.
• bold Rest After Frying: Let fried filets rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Fish Sandwich

Pairing your fried fish sandwich with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. bold Homemade Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with salt make for a classic side that everyone loves.
2. bold Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the sandwich.
3. bold Sweet Potato Fries: For a healthier twist, try sweet potato fries; their sweetness pairs beautifully with savory fish.
4. bold Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips provide an easy snackable side that’s always a hit.
5. bold Grilled Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and texture next to your sandwich.
6. bold Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and complements the flavors of the sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Fried Fish Sandwich, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to dry the fish filets can lead to a soggy sandwich. Always pat the filets dry with paper towels before frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many filets at once can lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in uneven frying. Fry in batches for the best results.
• Inadequate Seasoning: Not seasoning the fish adequately can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not Preheating Oil Properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fish will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer or test with a breadcrumb to ensure the oil is ready.
• Ignoring Roll Preparation: Grill or toast your rolls for added texture and flavor. This step is essential for a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Fried Fish Sandwich in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fried Fish Sandwich

• Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fried Fish Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may make the bread less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in it for 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Fried Fish Sandwich extra crispy?

To achieve an extra crispy Fried Fish Sandwich, double-dip your fish filets in flour, then egg, and finally panko breadcrumbs before frying.

Can I use different types of fish?

Yes! While this recipe uses cod, you can try other white fish like haddock or tilapia for delicious variations on your Fried Fish Sandwich.

What sides pair well with a Fried Fish Sandwich?

Classic sides include homemade fries, coleslaw, or potato chips that complement your Fried Fish Sandwich beautifully.

How do I customize the tartar sauce?

For a twist on traditional tartar sauce, consider adding ingredients like dill pickles, capers, or even sriracha for some heat alongside your Fried Fish Sandwich.

Conclusion

This Fried Fish Sandwich is not only crunchy and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize toppings and sauces as you like. Try it today!

---