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Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

The Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food combining perfectly fried, golden cod fillets with fresh toppings and a tangy sauce inside soft buns. This recipe delivers a crunchy texture, fresh flavors, and easy-to-find ingredients, making it a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Fish and Coating

  • Fresh cod fillets – 1 lb, cut into sandwich-sized pieces
  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • Buttermilk – 1 cup
  • Beer or sparkling water – 3/4 cup
  • Panko breadcrumbs – 1 1/2 cups (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • Salt – 1 tsp
  • Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
  • Paprika – 1/2 tsp

Bread and Toppings

  • Soft sandwich buns – 4, slightly toasted (use gluten-free buns if desired)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves – 4
  • Tomato slices – 8 slices
  • Pickles – 8 slices

Sauces and Frying

  • Tartar sauce or aioli – 1/2 cup
  • Vegetable or canola oil – for frying, enough to deep fry (about 4 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into sandwich-sized pieces if needed.
  2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in buttermilk and beer (or sparkling water) until smooth and thick enough to cling to fish but not too heavy.
  3. Bread the Cod: Dredge each cod piece lightly in flour first, then dip into the batter, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. This triple coating ensures maximum crunchiness.
  4. Fry the Cod: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded cod pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the buns lightly. Spread tartar sauce or aioli on both halves. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and fried cod fillets. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh cod for the best texture and flavor; thaw frozen cod completely and pat dry before use.
  • Maintain frying oil temperature between 350°F and 365°F to avoid greasy or burnt fish.
  • Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • Following the flour, batter, and panko sequence guarantees that perfect crunch.
  • Let fried cod drain on a wire rack briefly to keep it crispier longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy fried cod, fish sandwich, comfort food, fried fish sandwich, seafood sandwich, crunchy fish sandwich