From Water to Pan, Here’s Everything You’ll Need to Fry Fish

Fried fish is a classic dish that’s been enjoyed for centuries, but preparing it properly requires a bit of thought and preparation. You can’t just throw a piece of fish into a hot pan and hope for the best. There are many things to consider, from selecting a fish to the oil and equipment you use to cook it.

In this article, we’ll cover the process of frying fish from start to finish. If you’re new to frying fish, the process can seem intimidating, but once you’ve read through this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped for your next frying adventure.

The Fish

Selection

When selecting fish for frying, the possibilities are practically endless. Depending on your location, you may have access to fresh-caught fish that are perfect for frying. Some popular varieties include perch, cod, haddock, halibut, and catfish. You can also go for wild salmon or trout filets if you want a bit more flavor. If you are a fisher yourself and want to cook your own catch, be sure to check your local fishing laws to ensure you are allowed to keep your catch. 

Cleaning

Before preparing the fish, it’s important to ensure it’s properly cleaned. First, remove any scales from the skin by running the back of a knife or using a fish scaler against the grain of the scale pattern. Then use a sharp knife to cut away the fins and cut into the flesh behind the gills and belly flap to open up the cavity of the fish. Rinse out any excess blood or organs that remain inside, taking extra care not to puncture any internal organs, and dry off with paper towels before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Spices and Batter

Spice Options

When it comes to spices for frying fish, there is no limit to what you can use! Try experimenting with familiar flavors like garlic or cumin and more exotic spices like cardamom or smoked paprika for a unique twist on the classic fried fish flavor profile. You can also opt for pre-mixed fish fry seasonings for an easy way to add flavor without considering measurements or proportions.

Batter Recipes

Try battering your fish before frying it for an even crispy fried fish dish! There are plenty of traditional recipes, but here’s one to get you started: mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, one teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a bowl until blended together evenly. Slowly add 1 cup cold water while stirring until there are no lumps, and then set aside while you prep your other ingredients. Once your fish is seasoned and ready, dip each filet into the batter until completely coated before frying in hot oil.

Frying Equipment

Appropriate Frying Pans

When it comes time to fry your battered fish filets, it’s important to have the right equipment on hand! The best type of pan for frying fish is one made out of cast iron or stainless steel, as these materials heat up evenly but retain enough heat without burning your food too quickly or easily. Make sure that whatever pan you choose is large enough for all of your filets without overlapping, as this will help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking or burning at the edges of your pan.

Utensils

You’ll need a few additional utensils beyond just a good pan when it comes time to fry your fish filets! A metal spatula will help you handle delicate pieces while transferring them from pan to plate, and a pair of kitchen tongs work great when flipping over larger pieces during cooking time. Additionally, having some clean paper towels nearby will help absorb excess grease and oil after each batch so your kitchen stays clean and tidy throughout the process!

Frying Steps

Prepping and Breadcrumbing

Before popping those battered pieces into hot oil, ensure they’re properly seasoned! After dipping each piece in batter, roll them in some finely ground breadcrumbs until completely coated before setting them aside on a baking sheet until ready for frying. This process helps give them an additional crispy outer layer when cooked in hot oil.

Frying Temperature

When it comes time to fry your prepared pieces of beer-battered cod or halibut filets, you must get the temperature right! Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until bubbles form around a wooden spoon or chopstick inserted into the oil. This is usually around 350°F.

Frying Sequence

Once your oil reaches temperature, it’s time to start cooking. Drop each piece one at a time into the hot oil, not letting them overlap. Fry each piece for approximately three minutes per side before flipping over with tongs or a metal spatula if needed so both sides cook evenly and turn golden brown. Once cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer cooked filets onto paper towels lined plates or trays. This will help absorb extra grease before serving.

Conclusion

Fried fish is a classic dish with a rich flavor profile. It can be intimidating to the uninitiated, but with some preparation and the right recipe, you can easily enjoy fried fish at home. From selecting the right kind of fish to using the right oil and frying equipment, there are a lot of factors to consider when frying fish. We hope this guide has given you the confidence to try your hand at this delicious food.