Get ready to elevate your Friday nights with a deliciously crispy fish fry that will have your taste buds dancing! This "Friday Night Fish Fry with Tartar Sauce" recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that brings the warmth of American cuisine right into your kitchen. Imagine perfectly breaded white fish, golden and crunchy on the outside, paired with a creamy, tangy tartar sauce that perfectly complements every bite. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into our easy-to-follow guide and discover how to create a fish fry that will make your weekends unforgettable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of white fish (cod, haddock, etc.)
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pickles, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing your ingredients. Gather 4 pieces of white fish such as cod or haddock, ensuring they are thawed if previously frozen. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Set up a breading station by placing three shallow bowls on your countertop. In the first bowl, add 1 cup of flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat 2 eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, add 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
- Coat each piece of fish in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the floured fish into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, dredge the fish in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well. Set the breaded fish aside on a plate.
- In a large skillet, pour enough oil for frying, about 1/2 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is ready.
- Carefully place the breaded fish pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fish for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spatula to flip the fish gently and remove them from the oil once done. Transfer the fried fish to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- While the fish is frying, prepare the tartar sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of chopped pickles, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Once all the fish is fried and the tartar sauce is ready, serve the fish hot with a generous dollop of tartar sauce on the side. Enjoy your Friday Night Fish Fry!
Tips
- Choose the Right Fish: For the best results, opt for firm white fish like cod or haddock. These types hold up well during frying and have a mild flavor that everyone will love.
- Dry the Fish: Make sure to pat the fish dry with paper towels before breading. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy finish.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Organizing your flour, egg, and breadcrumb bowls in a row can make the breading process smoother. This way, you can easily coat each piece of fish without making a mess.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the fish is cooked through; if it's too cool, the fish will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fish in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to soggy fish instead of crispy perfection.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize your tartar sauce by adding herbs like dill or capers for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different spices in the flour for a unique twist!
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the fried fish right after cooking. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the crispy goodness while it's hot!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
