Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

Inspired by the classic Filet-O-Fish, our Fried Cod Fish Sandwich is a delightful treat that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This crispy fish sandwich features a large filet of tender fried cod, paired with homemade tartar sauce, a slice of cheddar cheese, and a soft steamed bun. With its satisfying crunch and tangy flavor, this sandwich stands out in any meal lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The frying technique creates an irresistibly crispy coating that complements the flaky cod.
• Homemade Tartar Sauce: Our tartar sauce is fresh and zesty, enhancing the flavors without artificial ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can prepare this delicious sandwich from start to finish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a quick lunch or as part of a casual dinner gathering; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Fried Cod Fish Sandwich, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep heavy-bottom pan
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Steamer basket or strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep heavy-bottom pan: Provides even heating for frying, reducing the risk of burning your fish.
• Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the fried fish while keeping it crisp.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing your dredges and sauces without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter consistency for an even coating on the fish.

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Ingredients

For the Cod

• 24 oz Cod (Icelandic Cod or similar fish)
• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 qt peanut oil (or other neutral frying oil)

For the Breading Mixture

• 2 cups flour (divided)
• 1 ½ tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (divided)
• ½ tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp baking powder

For the Batter

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup sparkling water

For Assembly

• 4 chicken hamburger buns
• 2 slices cheddar cheese

For Homemade Tartar Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp dill pickle (diced)
• 1 tbsp capers (diced)
• 1 tbsp parsley (fresh chopped)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Pour the frying oil into a large heavy bottom pan and heat over medium-high until it reaches 375°F. Lower the stove to maintain that temperature throughout cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Tartar Sauce

Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, diced pickles, capers, and parsley in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cut and Season Cod

Using your buns as a guide, cut the cod into squares of similar size (about 4-6 oz). Season liberally with salt and pepper. Place on a wire rack set over a baking pan.

Step 4: Make Dredging Mixtures

For the dry dredge, mix flour with Old Bay seasoning in a wide shallow bowl. For the wet dredge, combine flour, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, turmeric, white pepper, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in the egg then whisk in sparkling water until you achieve dressing-like consistency.

Step 5: Dredge Cod Pieces

Coat each piece of fish in the dry mixture first. Once coated in flour, return them to the wire rack. Dip each piece into the wet batter ensuring it’s fully submerged before removing it to let excess drip off.

Step 6: Fry Fish Fillets

Carefully lower one piece of battered fish into hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping with tongs. Continue frying until golden brown and cooked through—about another 2 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool.

Step 7: Steam Hamburger Buns

Steam each bun for about 10 seconds using a steamer basket or strainer placed over simmering water to warm them up perfectly.

Step 8: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Begin by slathering tartar sauce on the bottom bun. Place one piece of fried cod on top followed by half a slice of cheddar cheese. Add more tartar sauce if desired before placing on the top bun. Press gently together and enjoy!

This Fried Cod Fish Sandwich will surely become a favorite! Enjoy every crispy bite!

How to Serve Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

Serving your Fried Cod Fish Sandwich can elevate the dining experience. Pair it with delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavors of the crispy fish and tangy tartar sauce.

With a Side of Crispy Fries

• item: Golden, crispy fries are a classic pairing that complements the sandwich perfectly. You can choose regular or sweet potato fries for added flavor.

Coleslaw for Crunch

• item: A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the fried cod. Opt for a tangy vinegar-based dressing to keep it light.

Pickled Vegetables

• item: Serve pickled vegetables on the side to introduce a zesty contrast. Their acidity cuts through the richness and adds brightness to each bite.

Tomato Salad

• item: A simple tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar can provide a refreshing touch alongside your sandwich.

Lemon Wedges

• item: Include lemon wedges for squeezing over the sandwich, enhancing its flavor while adding a zesty twist.

How to Perfect Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

To achieve the ultimate Fried Cod Fish Sandwich, follow these essential tips that ensure every bite is crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh fish results in better flavor and texture. Look for firm fillets without any strong fishy smell.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 375°F ensures even cooking. If it’s too cold, the fish will absorb oil; if too hot, it may burn.
• Use Sparkling Water: The carbonation in sparkling water creates a light and airy batter, resulting in an extra crispy coating on your fried cod.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning both the fish and batter. Proper seasoning enhances natural flavors and makes each bite more delicious.
• Rest After Frying: Letting the fried fish rest on a wire rack helps maintain its crispiness by allowing excess oil to drain away.
• Customize Your Tartar Sauce: Feel free to tweak your tartar sauce with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

Pairing side dishes with your Fried Cod Fish Sandwich can make your meal complete. Here are several options that complement its flavors wonderfully.

1. Crispy Onion Rings: Golden onion rings add crunch and sweetness, making them an irresistible side choice.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad pairs well with fried foods; consider adding herbs for extra flavor.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn with butter offers a sweet contrast that balances out the savory sandwich.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides freshness and helps cleanse the palate.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans bring a hearty element to your meal, offering a nice contrast to the fish sandwich.
6. Vegetable Chips: Crunchy vegetable chips are a healthier alternative to traditional chips; they add color and variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Fried Cod Fish Sandwich, there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the fish adequately will lead to bland flavors. Make sure to liberally season both the cod and the flour mixture.
• Incorrect oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fish will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 375°F before frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many pieces of fish at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to keep the temperature steady and achieve that crispy texture.
• Using stale buns: Stale or dry buns can ruin your sandwich experience. Opt for fresh hamburger buns and consider steaming them briefly for added softness.
• Neglecting the tartar sauce: A lack of flavor in your sauce can dampen the sandwich’s appeal. Don’t skip on fresh ingredients like dill pickles and parsley in your tartar sauce.
• Not letting excess oil drain: Placing fried fish directly on a plate will make it soggy. Use a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip off and maintain crispiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Fried Cod Fish Sandwich is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

• Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place sandwiches on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a less crispy texture.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the Fried Cod Fish Sandwich:

What type of cod should I use?

You can use Icelandic Cod or any similar white fish like haddock or pollock for this recipe.

Can I use different toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with lettuce, tomatoes, or other sauces according to your taste preferences.

How do I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends and ensure your buns are also gluten-free.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to eat, ensuring freshness.

Can I bake instead of frying?

While frying gives that classic crunch, you can coat the fish with breadcrumbs and bake at 400°F for a healthier option.

How long does it take to prepare this sandwich?

The total preparation time is about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

The Fried Cod Fish Sandwich (Filet-O-Fish Inspired) offers a delightful combination of crispy fried fish, tangy tartar sauce, and soft buns. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and allows room for customization based on personal tastes. Whether you stick with traditional toppings or experiment with new ones, this sandwich is sure to impress!