Description
This ultra-crispy fish batter recipe delivers light, golden-brown fried fish with a crunchy exterior and tender, flaky inside. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and works for any type of white fish. Serve with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce for the ultimate seafood meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 cup ice-cold sparkling water or beer
- 1 egg (optional, for added crispiness)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
- Prep the Fish – Pat fish fillets completely dry and cut into uniform sizes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Make the Batter – Gradually add cold sparkling water, whisking until smooth.
- Heat Oil – Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat the Fish – Lightly dust fish with flour, then dip into the batter, letting excess drip off.
- Fry the Fish – Carefully place fish in hot oil, frying 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain & Serve – Place fried fish on a wire rack to stay crispy. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use rice flour instead of all-purpose flour for extra crispiness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter—lumps are fine!
- Keep batter cold at all times.
- Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Deep-Frying
- Cuisine: American / British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg