Ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Start by rinsing the fish fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Cut the fillets into smaller pieces if desired. This will help them cook evenly and make them easier to manage.
Step 2: Create the Breading Station
In one bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk. Set up these two bowls next to each other to create a breading station.
Step 3: Dredge the Fish
Take each fish fillet and dip it first in the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the floured fillet into the buttermilk, making sure it is fully coated. Finally, dip it back into the flour mixture for a second coating.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan so that it’s about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Using a thermometer is a helpful way to monitor the oil’s temperature.
Step 5: Fry the Fish
Carefully place the breaded fish fillets into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spatula to flip the fillets, if needed. Remove the fried fish from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your crispy fried fish is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and your choice of side dishes. It pairs perfectly with coleslaw, french fries, or a refreshing salad.
With this easy-to-follow guide, you can now make crispy fried fish like a pro. Whether you’re cooking for a gathering or simply satisfying your own cravings, this dish is sure to impress. So, go ahead and give it a try!