Crispy Fish Sandwich

A crispy fish sandwich is a mouthwatering delight featuring golden, crunchy fish fillets served on a soft bun with fresh toppings and a tangy sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this sandwich combines the satisfying crunch of the breaded fish with creamy, zesty flavors. Whether you use cod, tilapia, or another white fish, this recipe is a hit for seafood lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Delicious: The fish is perfectly fried to a crunchy, golden brown.
• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings and sauces.
• Great for All Ages: A fun and flavorful alternative to traditional burgers or sandwiches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Fish:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sandwich:

• 4 sandwich buns (brioche or hamburger buns)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced

For the Tartar Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Fish:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Set Up Breading Station:
   • Bowl 1: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk eggs and milk together.
   • Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
3. Bread the Fish: Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the panko and cornmeal mixture. Press gently to adhere.
4. Fry the Fish: Carefully place the breaded fish into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Make the Tartar Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

Assemble the Sandwich:

1. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a skillet or toaster.
2. Build the Sandwich: Spread tartar sauce on both sides of the buns. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and the crispy fish fillet.
3. Serve: Close the sandwich, serve immediately, and enjoy with fries, chips, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Healthier Option: Bake the fish at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
• Grilled Fish Sandwich: Skip the breading and grill the fish with a bit of seasoning.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the breading mix or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Different Sauces: Swap tartar sauce for a spicy mayo, chipotle sauce, or garlic aioli.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the fish in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish soggy.
• Freezing: Bread the fish and freeze before cooking. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat the fish dry before breading.

What is the best type of fish to use?

Mild white fish like cod, tilapia, haddock, or pollock works best for a crispy fish sandwich.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure the fish is dry before breading and press the panko mixture firmly onto the fish.

Can I bake the fish instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for the crispiest results.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes are great alternatives for a crunchy coating.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

How do I prevent the fish from being greasy?

Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before frying and drain the fish on paper towels or a wire rack.

Can I make the tartar sauce in advance?

Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What sides go well with a crispy fish sandwich?

Serve with fries, coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh green salad.

How can I make this sandwich spicy?

Add sliced jalapeños, a spicy tartar sauce, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sandwich.

Conclusion

A crispy fish sandwich is a fantastic choice when you’re craving something fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor. This easy-to-make recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right at home. With its crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish, every bite is a delight. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

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