Description
This Captain D’s-inspired batter-dipped fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a golden-brown coating that makes it irresistible. Perfect for a classic seafood dinner or family night, this recipe brings the taste of your favorite seafood restaurant right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 large cod or haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying.
For the batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sparkling water (or club soda)
Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Make the dry coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt.
- Coat the fish: Dip each fillet into the buttermilk, then coat it generously in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the coating.
- Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir in the sparkling water until smooth. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
- Fry the fish: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Dip each coated fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the battered fillets into the hot oil. Fry for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve immediately with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides like coleslaw or fries.
Notes
- For an air fryer option, skip the frying step and cook the battered fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use fresh fish for best results; frozen fish may result in a soggy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fish fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg