Fried cod fish recipes has always been one of my go-to comfort foods, especially on those days when I’m craving something crispy, golden, and irresistibly delicious. The beauty of fried cod fish is its simplicity: it’s quick, satisfying, and doesn’t require complicated ingredients to make. When it’s cooked right, it boasts a perfectly crispy crust and tender, flaky white fish inside. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner, a special family meal, or just indulging in some comfort food, this fried cod fish recipe fits any occasion perfectly.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s accessible for all cooking levels. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are easy to follow, so even if you’re new to frying fish, you can confidently make this at home. Plus, this fried cod fish is versatile, it pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, from crispy fries to a fresh salad. So, if you’ve been craving the perfect fried fish, this recipe will quickly become your favorite go-to.
Table of contents
The Secret to Perfect Fried Cod Fish Recipes
This fried cod fish recipe works because it strikes the perfect balance between a crunchy, golden exterior and a moist, flaky interior. The magic is in the coating, a simple but flavorful flour and seasoning mixture that fries up crispy without overpowering the delicate taste of the cod. The key to getting it just right is ensuring that the oil is hot enough to quickly cook the fish, creating that signature crispy coating without absorbing too much oil.
Additionally, cod is an ideal fish for frying. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it a perfect base for the crispy batter, and its firm texture holds up well during the frying process. Plus, this recipe allows for customization. If you prefer a lighter batter, you can reduce the amount of flour or substitute it with breadcrumbs for added crunch. You can also experiment with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne to adjust the flavor to your liking. Whether you’re serving it for yourself or a crowd, this fried cod fish recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate.
Recipe Card
Fried Cod Fish Recipes
Cuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes350
kcalThis fried cod fish recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown fillets with a tender, juicy interior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend seafood feast!
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup cold soda water (or sparkling water)
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Gradually whisk in the cold soda water until the batter is smooth but not too runny. - Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). - Coat and Fry the Cod:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then lightly dust them with a bit of flour.
Dip each fillet into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Gently lower the fillets into the hot oil, frying in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. - Drain and Serve:
Remove fried cod from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serve hot with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Choosing the Cod: Fresh or frozen cod works well, but ensure it’s fully thawed and dried before frying.
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the fish but not too thick. Adjust with extra water or flour if needed.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a steady oil temperature to avoid soggy or burnt fish.
How to Perfect Your Fried Cod Fish recipes
- Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier crust, add a tablespoon of rice flour or panko breadcrumbs to the batter.
- Healthier Option: For a lighter meal, try a pan-fried cod fish recipe using just a bit of olive oil in a skillet.
- Get the Oil Hot Enough: The oil temperature is crucial! If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fish will soak up too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Aim for a temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). You can check the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil, it should sizzle immediately.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick!
- Dry the Cod: Before dipping the cod fillets into the batter, pat them dry with a paper towel. Moisture on the surface can cause the batter to slide off, leaving you with a soggy coating.
Recipe Variant
1. Beer-Battered Fried Cod
One of the most popular variations of fried cod is the beer batter. The beer gives the batter a light, crisp texture and a slight bitterness that pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of cod. The carbonation in beer helps the batter stay light and airy, creating an even crunchier exterior.
How to Make It:
Replace the water in the batter with a cold beer (lager works best), and add a pinch of salt and a dash of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. For even more flavor, you can try using different types of beer, pale ales or stouts for a richer flavor, or even a fruity wheat beer for a unique twist.
2. Gluten-Free Fried Cod recipes
If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, it’s very easy to do. All you need is a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. You can use rice flour, chickpea flour, or even cornmeal for a crunchy, gluten-free coating.
How to Make It:
Replace the all-purpose flour with your choice of gluten-free flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. For a crispier crust, add cornstarch to the flour blend. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to coat the fish.
3. Cajun Spiced Fried Cod
If you love bold flavors, a Cajun spiced fried cod recipe will be your new favorite. This version packs a punch with spicy seasonings and smoky undertones, making it a great option for anyone who enjoys a little heat.
How to Make It:
To make Cajun fried cod, simply add Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a little cayenne pepper to your dry flour mixture. For an extra kick, you can also season the fish directly with some salt, pepper, and extra cayenne before dipping it into the batter.
4. Lemon and Herb Fried Cod
For a lighter, more refreshing version of fried cod, add lemon zest and fresh herbs to your batter for a burst of flavor. This variant is perfect for a summer meal or a more delicate take on fried cod that’s still packed with flavor.
How to Make It:
Add finely grated lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to your batter mix. You can even squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the fried fish to enhance the citrusy notes. The combination of lemon and herbs adds a fresh, vibrant twist to the dish.
FAQs
Yes, haddock, tilapia, or pollock work great as substitutes in this recipe.
Serve immediately after frying, or keep warm in a low oven (200°F) to maintain crispiness.
Yes! Lightly spray battered fillets with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can also check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. If it flakes easily and appears opaque, it’s ready. Avoid overcooking, as cod can dry out quickly.
Let’s Wrap up
Fried cod fish is a timeless and versatile dish that’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with one of the many variations, you’re guaranteed a crispy, flavorful dish that will please everyone at the table. Remember, the key to perfect fried cod lies in getting that golden, crunchy exterior while maintaining the tender, flaky fish inside.
If you loved this fried cod fish recipe, check out our Smoky Chipotle Chicken Recipe for another dish packed with bold flavors and a satisfying kick!
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