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

Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- 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.