Crispy Fried Fish (Pub-Style!)


Golden, flaky, and irresistibly crispy—just like your favorite fish & chips!

If you’re craving that perfect restaurant-style fried fish with a shatteringly crisp crust and tender, flaky interior, this recipe is for you! With a light batter made from flour, cornstarch, and cold sparkling water, these golden fillets fry up beautifully without feeling heavy or greasy.

Whether you’re serving them with classic tartar sauce and fries, sliding them into tacos, or piling them high on a sandwich bun, this crispy fried fish is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers.


Ingredients

For the Fish:

  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work great)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cold sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

To Serve:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Tartar sauce (or malt vinegar!)

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil

Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer to submerge the fish. Heat it to 375°F (190°C).

2. Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in the cold sparkling water, whisking until you get a smooth, slightly thick batter. The carbonation helps keep the coating airy and crispy!

3. Prep the Fish

Pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly dust each fillet in plain flour—this helps the batter stick better.

4. Batter and Fry

Dip each floured fillet into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place into the hot oil and fry for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping once if needed.

5. Drain and Serve

Remove the fish from the oil and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with a little salt while hot. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.


Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Fish & Chips: Serve with fries and coleslaw.
  • Taco Time: Tuck into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and chipotle mayo.
  • Fish Sandwich: Stack it on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.

Tips & Variations

  • Cold Batter = Crispier Fish! Keep the sparkling water chilled and batter cold for best results.
  • Use Firm White Fish: Cod, haddock, and tilapia hold up well when fried. Avoid overly delicate fillets.
  • Add Heat: Stir a pinch of cayenne into the batter for a spicy kick.

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏰ Cook Time: 15 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4
🔥 Calories: ~400–450 per serving (without sauce)


This crispy fried fish recipe is a total crowd-pleaser—easy enough for a weeknight dinner, special enough for a weekend treat. Add a cold drink and some good company, and you’re all set!

#CrispyFish #SeafoodLovers #FriedFishRecipe #FishAndChips #EasyDinnerIdeas

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