Fried Fish Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Fried Fish Sandwich is the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and savory in every bite. The fish fillet is coated in a flavorful batter, fried to perfection, and then piled onto a soft, toasted bun. The contrast of textures is what makes this sandwich so irresistible. Add your favorite toppings like tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and you’ve got a satisfying, delicious sandwich that can’t be beat. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make at home!

Ingredients

For the fish:

• 2 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sandwich:

• 2 soft burger buns or brioche buns

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (or tartar sauce)

• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)

• Lettuce leaves (optional)

• Sliced tomatoes (optional)

• Pickles (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the fish:

1. Prepare the batter: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Dredge the fish: Dip each fish fillet into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the fillet in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the batter sticks. Repeat with the other fillet.

3. Fry the fish: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fish fillets. Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

For the sandwich:

4. Toast the buns: While the fish is frying, lightly toast the buns in a toaster or on a skillet with a bit of butter for added flavor. Toast until golden brown.

5. Assemble the sandwich: Spread mayonnaise (or tartar sauce) on the bottom half of each bun. Optionally, add a little mustard for extra tang.

6. Add the fish and toppings: Place the crispy fried fish fillet on the bottom bun. Top with fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, and a few pickle slices for added crunch and flavor.

7. Serve: Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich, press down gently, and serve immediately. You can serve it with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 Fried Fish Sandwiches. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and frying the fish takes about 10-12 minutes. The sandwich comes together in under 20 minutes!

Variations

• Spicy Fried Fish Sandwich: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick, or drizzle hot sauce directly on the fish fillet before assembling the sandwich.

• Southern-style sandwich: Use buttermilk in the batter and add a bit of cayenne pepper for a classic Southern touch.

• Grilled Fish Option: For a lighter version, you can grill the fish fillets instead of frying them, keeping the flavors fresh and healthy.

• Cheese: Add a slice of cheddar, American, or Swiss cheese for a cheesy twist on the classic fish sandwich.

• Tartar sauce: If you want to make your own tartar sauce, mix mayonnaise with relish, lemon juice, and a bit of mustard for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

While Fried Fish Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, leftover fried fish fillets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. The bread and toppings should be added fresh to maintain the sandwich’s quality.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

While the sandwich itself is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the fried fish fillets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the fish in the oven or a hot skillet and assemble the sandwich.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! While cod, haddock, and tilapia are popular choices, you can use other white fish fillets like flounder or pollock. Just make sure the fish is firm enough to hold up during frying.

How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

To make the sandwich gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour and gluten-free bread for the buns.

Can I bake the fish instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the fish instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the fish on a lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flaky.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

To keep the bread from becoming soggy, make sure to toast the buns and drain any excess oil from the fried fish on paper towels. You can also layer the mayonnaise or tartar sauce on the bun, not directly on the fish.

Can I add other toppings to the sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add coleslaw, sautéed onions, avocado slices, or even a fried egg to make the sandwich even more indulgent.

Conclusion

The Fried Fish Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fried fish, tangy sauce, and fresh toppings all in one delicious sandwich. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a quick snack, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy it with a side of crispy fries or a salad, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!