Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

Seafood sandwiches have long been a staple in coastal communities, celebrated for their satisfying flavors and textures. Among these, the crispy fried cod sandwich stands out as a beloved favorite. Whether enjoyed on a sunny boardwalk or at a cozy family dinner table, this sandwich offers a delightful combination of crunchy texture and rich flavor that keeps people coming back for more.

Indulge in the ultimate crispy fried cod sandwich, a coastal favorite that combines rich flavors and delightful textures. This recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients, guiding you through the process of marinating cod in buttermilk for tenderness and creating a crunchy coating using flour and cornmeal. With tips on frying to perfection and assembling your sandwich with vibrant toppings and zesty tartar sauce, this dish is destined to become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy the experience of crafting a wholesome and delicious seafood meal that brings everyone together.

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Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

4 sandwich buns (brioche or whole grain)

Lettuce leaves, for garnish

1 medium tomato, sliced

Tartare sauce, for serving (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Prep the Cod: Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. Place the fillets in a shallow dish and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Breading: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.

Bread the Cod: Remove the cod fillets from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each fillet into the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Shake off any excess breading and set the fillets aside on a plate.

Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1/2 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully drop a small amount of the breading into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

Fry the Cod: Carefully place the breaded cod fillets in the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the sandwich buns lightly until golden brown. Spread a generous amount of tartare sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a crispy fried cod fillet, a few lettuce leaves, and a slice of tomato. Cap with the top half of the bun.

Serve: Serve the sandwiches hot with extra tartare sauce on the side and your favorite potato chips or fries.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings