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Crispy Fish Batter Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 76 reviews

This Crispy Fish Batter recipe creates a light, airy, and crunchy coating perfect for frying fish. Using a blend of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder along with cold sparkling water or beer ensures a delicate crispiness that complements the tender fish inside. Ideal for frying in hot oil, this batter yields golden-brown, flavorful fish perfect for a satisfying meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Batter Ingredients

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (60g) cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
  • 1 cup (240ml) cold sparkling water or beer (for a light, airy batter)
  • 1 egg (optional, for extra binding and crispiness)

For Frying

  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined. Gradually pour in the cold sparkling water or beer while continuously whisking to create a smooth, slightly thick batter. If using, beat the egg separately and whisk it into the batter for extra crispiness and binding.
  2. Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 to 3 inches of vegetable, canola, or peanut oil into a deep frying pan or pot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to ensure the correct frying temperature for a crisp coating.
  3. Coat the Fish: Pat your fish fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels. Lightly dust each fillet with flour to help the batter adhere better. Then dip each fillet into the prepared batter, making sure to coat it evenly and completely.
  4. Fry the Fish: Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature. Fry for approximately 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the batter is golden brown, crispy, and the fish is cooked through.
  5. Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fish from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your preferred side dishes for a delicious crispy fish meal.

Notes

  • Using cold sparkling water or beer helps create a lighter, airier batter texture.
  • Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked batter.
  • Lightly dusting the fish with flour before battering improves batter adhesion and crispiness.
  • Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower oil temperature and result in soggy batter.
  • Optional spices like garlic powder and paprika add extra flavor and appealing color to the batter.

Keywords: crispy fish batter, fish fry batter, beer batter recipe, crunchy fish coating, fried fish recipe

Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/crispy-fish-batter-recipe/