Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? This recipe for crispy fried cod is your answer! It's a fantastically easy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. This homemade cooking marvel delivers flaky, tender cod fillets encased in a perfectly golden-brown crust. Get ready for a delicious dish that’s surprisingly healthy and satisfying, even for those seeking healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cod fillets, cut into 4 portions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra tenderness!)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get started:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust! Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy fried fish.
Prepare the breading:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Bread the cod:
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Dip each cod fillet into the milk or buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
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Dredge the cod fillets in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres well. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated.
Fry the cod:
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour sizzles immediately.
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Carefully place the cod fillets in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Fry in batches if necessary.
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Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the cod is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serve and Enjoy:
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Remove the fried cod from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as tartar sauce, lemon wedges, coleslaw, or french fries. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Tips for the Best Fried Cod:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: Ensure your oil reaches the correct temperature for even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just flaky and cooked through.
- Let the oil rest: Allow the oil to fully heat before adding the fish.
Variations:
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Cod: Add dried herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Lemon Pepper Cod: Replace the paprika with lemon pepper seasoning for a bright and zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious and crispy fried cod! Let us know in the comments how your fried cod turned out! We love hearing from our readers and seeing your culinary creations. Remember to share this best recipe with your friends and family!