Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Trust me, this crispy fried cod with homemade tartar sauce is a game-changer. Imagine the satisfying crunch of golden, crispy batter giving way to tender, flaky fish. It’s like a warm, comforting hug in food form—perfect for when you want something familiar but elevated. And the homemade tartar sauce? Well, it’s the star of the show, adding that creamy, zesty bite that makes every bite of fish feel extra special. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next get-together, this recipe is a surefire winner.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce

This isn’t just about frying fish; it’s about creating moments of joy and satisfaction. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or feeding a group, this dish checks all the boxes.

Versatile

Need a dish that works for all occasions? This crispy fried cod fits the bill. It’s great for a simple weeknight dinner, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a gathering or as a special treat.

Budget-Friendly

You won’t need to spend a fortune to make this. The ingredients are simple, so it’s easy on the wallet but big on flavor. You likely have most of the items in your kitchen already!

Quick and Easy

Don’t worry, this is a recipe even beginners can tackle. The steps are straightforward, and the frying process is simple. You’ll be enjoying your dish in no time!

Customizable

Feel like experimenting with flavors? Add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat or a sprinkle of paprika for smokiness. You can even play around with the tartar sauce, making it more tangy or creamy depending on your preference.

Crowd-Pleasing

This recipe is a winner with everyone—from kids to adults. The crispy fish is a universal crowd-pleaser, and the homemade tartar sauce? It’s the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this crispy fried cod to life:

For the Fried Cod:

• Cod fillets (or your favorite white fish)
• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cold beer (or sparkling water, for a non-alcoholic option)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Homemade Tartar Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Pickles (dill or sweet, your choice)
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Capers
• Fresh parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper

(Note: The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card above!)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the batter stick better and ensures a crispy finish.

2. Make the Tartar Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and fresh parsley. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Set aside so the flavors can meld.

3. Make the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Slowly pour in the cold beer (or sparkling water), whisking as you go until the batter is smooth and thick—just the right consistency to coat the fish.

4. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the fish halfway, so don’t be shy with it. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter in—it should sizzle right away!

5. Coat and Fry the Cod

Dip each cod fillet into the batter, coating it evenly, then carefully lower it into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Place the crispy fried cod on a plate and serve with the homemade tartar sauce on the side. This is the moment to dig in—crispy, tender fish paired with that tangy, creamy sauce is a flavor combo you won’t forget!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 680mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 23g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads

A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect contrast to the crispy, rich cod. Go for something light like a simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw.

Crusty Bread

A loaf of warm, crusty bread makes a great accompaniment. Use it to soak up any extra tartar sauce or juices from the fish. Garlic bread would be extra special here!

Vegetable Sides

Roasted veggies, like asparagus or sweet potatoes, add color and nutrition to your meal. Their earthy flavors balance the richness of the fried fish.

Fries

Is it even really a fish fry without fries? Serve this crispy cod alongside some golden, crispy fries for the ultimate comfort food combo.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead

You can prep the tartar sauce ahead of time, as it gets better after sitting for a while. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Spice It Up

If you like heat, try adding some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter. It’ll give the dish a nice kick!

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat the cod in the oven to keep it crispy.

Double the Batch

This recipe is easy to double if you’re serving a crowd. Just be sure to fry the fish in batches to keep it crispy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Yes! Any mild, flaky white fish will work—think haddock, tilapia, or even halibut. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Q2: Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover fried cod and tartar sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The fish can be reheated in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.

Q4: Can I freeze the fried cod?
A4: Yes, the fried cod can be frozen! Just let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the oven for the best results.

Q5: What should I serve with this dish?
A5: Great side options include coleslaw, roasted veggies, or even a simple side of fries. Pair it with a cold beer or a crisp white wine for the perfect meal!

Q6: Can I use sparkling water instead of beer?
A6: Yes, sparkling water works great as a non-alcoholic substitute for beer. It still provides that bubbly texture that helps create a light, crispy batter.

Q7: How can I make the fish even crispier?
A7: For extra crunch, try double-dipping the fish in the batter before frying or add a little more cornstarch to the batter for an even crispier finish.

Q8: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A8: Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your beer or sparkling water is gluten-free.

Q9: How can I adjust this recipe for a smaller crowd?
A9: If you’re cooking for one or two people, simply cut the recipe in half, or make extra and save the leftovers for later!

Q10: What’s the best way to keep the fish crispy after frying?
A10: After frying, place the cod on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps the fish from getting soggy by allowing air to circulate around it, keeping it crispy!

Conclusion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, crispy fried cod with homemade tartar sauce is sure to steal the show. It’s crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love? So, gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and let’s make something that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. You’re going to love it!

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