Crispy Fried Fish 🐟🔥
Golden, flaky, and perfectly seasoned—this classic fried fish is crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and irresistible with a squeeze of lemon!
Ingredients
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4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or catfish)
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1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornmeal for extra crunch)
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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1 egg + 2 tbsp water (for egg wash)
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Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For Serving:
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Lemon wedges
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Tartar sauce
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Hot sauce
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Coleslaw or fries
Instructions
1. Prep the Fish
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Pat fish dry with paper towels (key for crispiness!).
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Cut into strips or leave whole.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations
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Bowl 1: Flour + salt + paprika + garlic powder + black pepper + cayenne.
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Bowl 2: Beaten egg + water.
3. Dredge & Coat
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Dip fish in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
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Dip in egg wash, letting drip slightly.
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Coat again in flour mixture (double coating = extra crispy!).
4. Fry to Perfection
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Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry fish in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Serve Hot!
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Sprinkle with salt right after frying.
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Serve with lemon, tartar sauce, and sides.
🔥 Pro Tips
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For beer-battered fish: Replace egg wash with 1 cup beer + 1 cup flour.
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Air fryer option: Spray with oil, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 mins, flipping halfway.
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Gluten-free? Use almond flour or rice flour.
Crispy, juicy, and restaurant-quality! 🍟🍋
Pairs perfectly with:
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Homemade fries
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Hushpuppies
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Vinegar slaw
Want a spicy kick? Add Cajun seasoning to the flour! 🌶️