Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich – A Must-Try Recipe

If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful fish sandwich, this crispy fried cod sandwich is exactly what you need. Featuring perfectly battered cod fillets fried to golden perfection and served on a toasted bun, it’s a combination of textures and flavors that will surely satisfy your seafood cravings. The crispy fish, complemented by the creamy tartar sauce and fresh vegetables, creates a deliciously balanced sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a weekend cookout, or just want to enjoy a quick, tasty meal, this crispy fried cod sandwich is a perfect choice. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality sandwich right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Flaky Fish

The cod fillets are coated in a light, crispy batter that’s perfectly crunchy on the outside, while remaining flaky and tender on the inside.

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2. Flavorful Tartar Sauce

The homemade tartar sauce, with its creamy texture and tangy flavor, adds the perfect finishing touch to the sandwich.

3. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy evenings or casual get-togethers.

4. Customizable

You can add extra toppings like coleslaw, cheese, or pickles to suit your personal taste and create the perfect sandwich for you.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a game day snack, or a picnic, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• Cod fillets (4-6 ounces each)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Cold club soda
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sandwich:

• Sandwich buns
• Tartar sauce
• Shredded lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Pickles (optional)
• Lemon wedges

Optional Toppings:

• Coleslaw
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Cheese (optional)

For Homemade Tartar Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Pickle relish
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or include a spicy sauce like sriracha to the tartar sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a hearty veggie patty or a large, crispy portobello mushroom cap in place of the cod for a vegetarian twist.
• Grilled Cod: For a lighter option, grill the cod fillets instead of frying them.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce (Optional)

• In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
• Gradually whisk in the cold club soda until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light, airy batter.

Step 3: Preheat the Oil

• Heat vegetable oil in a pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Cod

• Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the batter sticks.
• Dip each fillet into the batter, making sure it’s evenly coated, then carefully lower the fillets into the hot oil.
• Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the cod is golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

• Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a skillet or under a broiler until they’re golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
• Layer with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and any optional toppings you like.
• Place the fried cod fillet on top and cover with the top half of the bun.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the sandwiches immediately with a wedge of lemon on the side.
• Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use cold club soda for the batter, as it helps create a lighter, crispier coating when fried.
• For extra flavor, season the cod fillets with a little salt and pepper before dipping them into the batter.
• Ensure the oil temperature is at 350°F to get the perfect crispiness. If the oil is too hot, the batter will burn before the fish cooks through.
• For best results, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the cod. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
• If you prefer a thicker batter, you can add a little more cornstarch, but make sure not to overdo it as it could become too heavy.

How to Serve

This crispy fried cod sandwich is best served warm and can be paired with a variety of sides such as crispy fries, coleslaw, or a light salad. You can also serve it with extra pickles, a side of tartar sauce, or a zesty lemon wedge to enhance the flavors. It’s great for a casual lunch, dinner, or even as a fun addition to a BBQ spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the fried cod fillets separately from the sandwich buns and other toppings. Keep the cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sandwich buns and toppings should be stored separately to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked cod fillets for up to 1 month. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Reheating

To reheat the cod fillets, place them on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until they’re crispy again. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the oven, but it’s best to keep the toppings separate to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock in place of cod for this sandwich.

2. Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the tartar sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I fry the cod in a deep fryer?

Yes, a deep fryer works well for frying cod. Just make sure to heat the oil to 350°F before frying.

4. Can I make this sandwich healthier?

For a healthier version, you can grill the cod instead of frying it, and use whole wheat buns or skip the sauce.

5. Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free buns to make it gluten-free.

6. How can I make the batter lighter?

Ensure you’re using cold club soda and don’t overmix the batter. A lighter touch will keep it crispy.

7. Can I add cheese to the sandwich?

Yes, you can add a slice of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese to the sandwich if you like.

8. Can I use store-bought tartar sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought tartar sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade tartar sauce adds a more personalized touch.

9. How can I make the fish spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper to the batter or drizzle the sandwich with a spicy sauce, such as hot sauce or sriracha.

10. Can I make the cod in advance?

You can fry the cod ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispiness.

Conclusion

This crispy fried cod sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any seafood lover. With its perfectly battered cod, creamy tartar sauce, and fresh toppings, it’s a sandwich that’s sure to please. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that everyone will enjoy. Try it out today, and savor the crispy, golden goodness!

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