Ingredients:
Ingredient Quantity
White fish fillets (cod or haddock) 4
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Eggs, beaten 2
Breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch) 1 cup
Salt 1 tsp
Black pepper 1/2 tsp
Garlic powder 1/2 tsp
Hamburger buns 4
American cheese 4 slices
Tartar sauce 1 cup
Vegetable oil (for frying) 2 cups
Instructions:
Prepare the fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Set up a dredging station: Place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Coat each fillet in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the fish.
Fry the fish: Carefully place each breaded fillet into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Assemble the sandwiches: Place a slice of American cheese on each hot fillet, then toast the hamburger buns. Spread tartar sauce on the top bun, place the fish fillet on the bottom bun, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately.
Here are some variations and tips to elevate or customize your fish sandwich recipe:
Variations
- Bread Variations
- Swap hamburger buns for brioche, ciabatta, or pretzel rolls for a richer taste.
- Try lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Fish Substitutes
- Use salmon, tilapia, or even shrimp patties for a different flavor.
- Go upscale with mahi-mahi or sea bass fillets.
- Flavor Enhancements
- Add smoked paprika, cayenne, or lemon zest to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- Use seasoned panko breadcrumbs like Italian or garlic herb.
- Toppings
- Add coleslaw, pickled onions, or sliced avocados for texture and flavor.
- Include crispy bacon or fresh lettuce for added crunch.
- Sauce Options
- Swap tartar sauce for garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or chipotle sauce.
- Use a squeeze of lemon juice or drizzle honey mustard for a zesty twist.
- Cooking Method Alternatives
- Baked: For a healthier option, bake the breaded fish at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fried: Air fry the breaded fillets at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Tips
- Oil Temperature
- Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C). Overheating can cause the fish to burn, while cooler oil can make it greasy.
- Uniform Coating
- Press the breadcrumbs onto the fish firmly for a crispier texture.
- Avoid Sogginess
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while frying to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain fried fish on a wire rack instead of paper towels for better crispness.
- Preheat Buns
- Lightly butter and toast the buns for a warm, crispy base.
- Cheese Melting
- Add the cheese immediately after frying the fish so it melts perfectly.
- Serving Fresh
- Assemble and serve sandwiches immediately for the best taste and texture.
Would you like ideas for side dishes or drink pairings?