Are you searching for the best crispy batter fish recipe? Whether you’re craving a classic fish and chips recipe, a light and crunchy battered fish, or a homemade fried fish recipe, you’ve come to the right place!
This crispy fish fillet recipe creates golden brown, crunchy fish fillets with a perfectly light batter that stays crispy longer. Whether served as British-style fish and chips, fried fish tacos, or a seafood platter, this homemade crispy fried fish will be your new favorite go-to recipe!
Why This Crispy Batter Fish Recipe is the Best
- Light and Crispy Texture – Using cold sparkling water and cornstarch keeps the batter airy, golden, and crispy.
- Fast and Easy – This quick fish batter recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for Fish and Chips – This is a restaurant-quality fried fish recipe you can make at home.
- Best for Any Fish – Works well with cod, haddock, tilapia, pollock, and other white fish.
If you love crispy fried seafood, this easy batter for frying fish is a must-try!
Ingredients for Crispy Batter Fish
Main Ingredients:
- 4 fresh cod fillets (or any firm white fish)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the batter)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (adds extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (makes the batter light and fluffy)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (adds a mild smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold sparkling water (essential for the crispiest fried fish batter)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (helps bind the batter)
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (enhances flavor)
- Tartar sauce (a classic dipping sauce for fried fish)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Batter Fish – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step2: Add the Cold Ingredients
Pour in the cold sparkling water and the beaten egg. Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step3: Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). A cooking thermometer ensures the correct frying temperature for extra crispy fish fillets.
Step4: Coat the Fish Properly
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Lightly coat them with flour before dipping them into the batter—this helps the batter stick better.
Step5: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Carefully lower each fish fillet into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Step6: Drain and Serve Immediately
Transfer the fried fish fillets to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, and fresh parsley.
Expert Tips for Crispy Batter Fish
- Always use cold sparkling water – The carbonation helps create an extra crispy fish batter.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes – This allows the baking powder to activate for a lighter texture.
- Use the right frying temperature – Keep the oil at 375°F (190°C) to achieve crispy, golden brown fish.
- Fry in small batches – Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, making the fish soggy.
- Use fresh fish – Fresh white fish fillets fry up the crispiest.
Best Cooking Techniques for Crispy Batter Fish
- Double-fry for extra crunch – Fry for 2 minutes, let rest, then fry again for 2 more minutes.
- Use a wire rack, not paper towels – This keeps the fish crispy longer by preventing steam buildup.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter – A few lumps are fine and create a crunchier coating.
- Try an air fryer – Fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for a lighter option.
What to Serve with Crispy Batter Fish
- Classic Fish and Chips – Serve with crispy French fries and malt vinegar.
- Fish Tacos – Wrap the crispy fish in tortillas with slaw and chipotle mayo.
- Seafood Platter – Pair with fried shrimp, calamari, and coleslaw.
- Healthy Option – Serve with a fresh green salad and lemon vinaigrette.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage and Leftovers for Crispy Batter Fish
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month and reheat at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Crispy Batter Fish
1. What is the best fish for frying?
Cod, haddock, pollock, and tilapia are the best choices for crispy fried fish.
2. How do I prevent soggy batter?
Use cold sparkling water, fry at 375°F (190°C), and drain on a wire rack.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for a gluten-free crispy fish batter.
4. Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Related Recipes for Crispy Batter Fish Lovers
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Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe – Easy Seafood Dinner Idea
-
Nacho Cheese Beef Wrap – Best Easy Dinner Recipe
Conclusion
Now you have the best crispy batter fish recipe with golden, crunchy perfection! Whether you’re making classic fish and chips, fried fish tacos, or a seafood feast, this easy homemade fried fish recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out!
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Crispy Batter Fish Recipe – Best Crunchy Fried Seafood
Description
Are you searching for the best crispy batter fish recipe? Whether you’re craving a classic fish and chips recipe, a light and crunchy battered fish, or a homemade fried fish recipe, you’ve come to the right place!
This crispy fish fillet recipe creates golden brown, crunchy fish fillets with a perfectly light batter that stays crispy longer. Whether served as British-style fish and chips, fried fish tacos, or a seafood platter, this homemade crispy fried fish will be your new favorite go-to recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 fresh cod fillets (or any firm white fish)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the batter)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (adds extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (makes the batter light and fluffy)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (adds a mild smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cold sparkling water (essential for the crispiest fried fish batter)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (helps bind the batter)
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (enhances flavor)
- Tartar sauce (a classic dipping sauce for fried fish)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Pour in the cold sparkling water and the beaten egg. Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). A cooking thermometer ensures the correct frying temperature for extra crispy fish fillets.
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Lightly coat them with flour before dipping them into the batter—this helps the batter stick better.
Carefully lower each fish fillet into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Transfer the fried fish fillets to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, and fresh parsley.
Equipment

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- Always use cold sparkling water – The carbonation helps create an extra crispy fish batter.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes – This allows the baking powder to activate for a lighter texture.
- Use the right frying temperature – Keep the oil at 375°F (190°C) to achieve crispy, golden brown fish.
- Fry in small batches – Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, making the fish soggy.
- Use fresh fish – Fresh white fish fillets fry up the crispiest.