Here’s a classic recipe for Crispy Fish Fry—golden, crunchy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. Perfect for dinner with fries, rice, or a fresh salad!

🐟 Crispy Fish Fry

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb firm white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, catfish, or haddock)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1–2 eggs, beaten
• 2–3 tbsp milk
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prep the Fish

• Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
• Cut into smaller portions if desired. Dry fish ensures a crispier coating.

2. Set Up Breading Station

• In one bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
• In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with milk.

3. Coat the Fish

• Dip each fillet first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
• Then dredge in the flour-cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
• For extra crispy fish, you can double dip: egg → flour mixture → egg → flour mixture.

4. Heat the Oil

• In a large skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, about 1/4–1/2 inch deep for shallow frying.
• Test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread or batter—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

5. Fry the Fish

• Carefully add the fillets to the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Use a slotted spatula to remove the fish and drain on paper towels.

6. Serve

• Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of sides: coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Extra Crispy Fish

• Dry Fish: Patting fillets dry removes excess moisture, making the coating crispier.
• Cornmeal: Adds crunch and a slight nutty flavor.
• Oil Temperature: Keep the oil around 350°F (175°C). Too low → soggy fish; too high → burnt coating.
• Variations: Add Old Bay seasoning or cajun spice to the flour mixture for a flavor kick.

This Crispy Fish Fry is classic, simple, and always a hit!

If you want, I can also give a Southern-style beer-battered version that’s even crunchier and fluffier. Do you want me to do that?