Description
This Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich recipe features tender cod fillets coated in a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. Served on toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, and optional tartar sauce, it makes a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for seafood lovers craving a classic, crispy fish sandwich.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cod:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 sandwich buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture to ensure the coating will stick well.
- Mix the seasoned flour: In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a well-balanced seasoning blend.
- Combine buttermilk and egg: In another shallow dish, whisk the buttermilk and egg until fully combined to create a coating base for the fish.
- Prepare the breadcrumbs: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish ready for breading the fillets.
- Bread the cod fillets: Dredge each fillet first in the seasoned flour, coating evenly, then dip it into the buttermilk-egg mixture, and finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides thoroughly for maximum crispiness.
- Heat the oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), the ideal temperature for frying.
- Fry the cod fillets: Carefully lower the breaded fillets into the hot oil, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
- Drain the fried fish: Remove the cooked fillets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Toast the buns: While the fish drains, lightly toast the sandwich buns in the skillet or on a griddle until they develop a lightly golden, crisp surface.
- Spread tartar sauce: Optionally, spread tartar sauce on the bottom halves of each toasted bun for a creamy, tangy complement.
- Add lettuce: Place a fresh lettuce leaf on top of the tartar sauce to add crunch and freshness.
- Add tomato slices: Layer one or two slices of ripe tomato over the lettuce for juiciness and flavor.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place a crispy fried cod fillet atop the tomato slices.
- Top the sandwich: Cover with the top halves of the toasted buns to complete the sandwich.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the crispy fried cod sandwiches immediately while warm and enjoy the perfect combination of textures and flavors.
Notes
- Be sure to dry the cod fillets thoroughly before breading to ensure the coating adheres properly.
- Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked fish.
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice over the fish before assembling.
- Tartar sauce is optional but adds a great tangy contrast to the crispy fish.
- Use fresh sandwich buns for the best texture and taste.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan; fry in batches if necessary for even cooking and maintaining oil temperature.
