Description

This crispy fried cod sandwich is the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. A golden-brown, crispy cod fillet is paired with fresh toppings and a soft toasted bun, making it a delicious meal for any occasion. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to achieve a restaurant-quality fish sandwich right at home!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Cod:

2 cod fillets (4–6 oz each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
¾ cup beer or sparkling water
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sandwich Assembly:

2 brioche or potato buns, toasted
½ cup shredded lettuce
2 slices of tomato
4 pickle slices
¼ cup tartar sauce or aioli
1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Cut the fillets into sandwich-sized portions if necessary.
Season both sides of the fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Slowly add beer or sparkling water while stirring until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
Place the batter in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to chill.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Step 4: Fry the Cod

Dip each seasoned fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
Carefully place the fillets into the hot oil and fry for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the fillets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Place the buns cut-side down in the pan and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread tartar sauce or aioli on the bottom bun.
Place the crispy fried cod on top.
Add lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles.
Top with the other half of the bun.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as fries, coleslaw, or onion rings.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace beer with club soda or sparkling water.
For extra crunch, double-dip the fillet in the batter before frying.
To reheat leftovers, bake the fried fish at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes instead of microwaving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Fried
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwiche
Calories: 580