If you’re looking for a delectable, crispy delight to elevate your meal, look no further than these perfectly fried fish fillets! Seasoned and coated to perfection, these fillets are the epitome of comfort food, ideal for any weeknight dinner. With a crispy exterior and a moist, tender inside, they promise to please your taste buds with every bite.
Budget Information
The total cost for this recipe is approximately $15.50, making it about $3.87 per serving (serves 4). Here’s the breakdown:
- Fish fillets: $8.00
- Buttermilk: $1.50
- Cornmeal: $1.00
- Flour: $0.50
- Seafood seasoning: $0.75
- Oil for frying: $3.75
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a tried-and-true method for achieving that golden-brown, crispy goodness that everyone loves. The buttermilk marinade ensures the fish is moist and flavorful, while the cornmeal and flour mix gives it that irresistible crunch. Plus, frying at the right temperature keeps the fillets perfectly cooked and prevents sogginess. In short, it’s a foolproof way to make a dish that feels like it came straight from a restaurant, right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering fried fish fillets:
- 1 pound fresh fish fillets (like cod or tilapia) – $8.00 (substitution: any firm white fish or even shrimp)
- 1 cup buttermilk – $1.50 (substitution: 1 cup milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar)
- 1 cup cornmeal – $1.00 (substitution: breadcrumbs for a different texture)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – $0.50
- 2 teaspoons seafood seasoning – $0.75 (substitution: use Old Bay seasoning or mix of paprika, garlic powder, and salt)
- Oil for frying (enough to fill your fryer or pan) – $3.75
- Salt and pepper to taste – negligible cost
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by gathering all of your ingredients on the counter. This not only makes your cooking process smooth but also helps you visualize the delicious results to come. Make sure your fish fillets are fresh and ready!
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the buttermilk, water, salt, and a sprinkle of pepper until well combined. This mixture is the magic marinade that will tenderize the fish and add a rich flavor. Pour this dreamy concoction into a flat pan large enough to lay the fillets without cramming them.
Step 3: Take each fillet and arrange them into a single layer in the pan, carefully turning them to ensure each side is coated with the buttermilk mixture. Set them aside to marinate for about 15-30 minutes—this is where the flavors really start to develop!
Step 4: Meanwhile, grab a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag and combine the cornmeal, flour, and seafood seasoning inside. Take a moment to inhale the fragrant aroma; it signals that good things are coming!
Step 5: Once your fillets have marinated, it’s time to coat them. Add a few fillets at a time to the bag, seal it, and gently tumble the bag until the fish is evenly coated in the crunchy mixture. The sound of that coating will add to the anticipation!
Step 6: Now, heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to a sizzling 365°F (185°C). It’s very important your oil is hot enough to achieve that crispiness! Fry the fillets in batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing each piece enough space to brown beautifully—this should only take about 3 minutes per batch!
Step 7: Once the fillets are golden brown and crisp, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This little step helps to avoid any excess oiliness!
Step 8: And just like that, your crispy fried fish fillets are ready! Serve them hot and enjoy these little bites of paradise.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a rough nutritional estimate per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Total Fats: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the cooled fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 400°F oven until crispy again, usually around 10-12 minutes. This way, you keep that delightful crunch intact!
Serving Suggestions
These crispy fillets shine brightest when served alongside a zesty tartar sauce or a dollop of creamy coleslaw. Pair them with fluffy rice or crispy fries for a classic twist. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top to brighten the flavors and get ready for the applause!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Make sure your oil is at the right temperature before adding the fish—that’s the secret to achieving the perfect golden color. If you’re not a fan of frying at home, you can easily grill or bake the fillets as a healthier alternative. Just remember that they won’t have the same crunchy texture as the fried version!
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the fish dry before marinating to help the coating stick better.
2. What sides go well with fried fish? Classic sides such as coleslaw, tartar sauce, or a fresh green salad are great choices. You can also serve it with rice or seasoned fries.
3. How do I know when the fish is done frying? The fish should be golden brown and crispy; a good rule of thumb is about 3 minutes per side. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornmeal; it works wonderfully with this recipe.
5. Is there a sauce to recommend with this dish? A simple tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon is always a hit. Pair it with a spicy mayo for a flavorful kick!
