Flaky, Crunchy, and Fried to Perfection—Homemade Take on Long John Silver’s Fish
Growing up, Friday nights were sacred in my household. It was the one night a week when my family would indulge in a feast of fried fish from Long John Silver’s. The aroma of crispy batter and the sound of laughter filled our home as we gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company. This recipe is my homage to those cherished memories, bringing the same joy and flavor to my kitchen.
What Makes It Special
This homemade version of Long John Silver’s fish stands out for several reasons:
- Freshness: Using fresh fish ensures a tender and flaky texture that frozen alternatives simply can’t match.
- Customizable Batter: The batter can be adjusted to your taste, whether you prefer it light and crispy or thick and hearty.
- Healthier Option: By frying at home, you can control the oil and ingredients, making it a healthier choice than fast food.
- Family Tradition: This recipe is perfect for creating new memories with loved ones, just like I did as a child.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
- 1 pound white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or your choice)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Let’s Get Cooking
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Start by heating the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and paprika.
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Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
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Dip each fish fillet into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
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Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
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Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove the fish and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra crunch, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter.
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Experiment with different spices in the batter, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper, for a unique twist.
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Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the fish will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
What to Serve With It
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- Tartar sauce or homemade remoulade
- A cold beer or lemonade to wash it down
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
A: While fresh fish is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before battering.
Q: What if I don’t have sparkling water?
A: You can substitute with regular cold water, but sparkling water gives the batter a lighter, airier texture.
The Heart of the Dish
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with my past and create new memories with my family. The joy of sharing a plate of crispy fish, just like we did on those Friday nights, brings warmth to my heart. I hope this dish brings you as much happiness as it has brought me.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the spices or serve it with your favorite sides. I would love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Happy cooking!
Flaky, Crunchy, and Fried to Perfection—Homemade Take on Long John Silver’s Fish
Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
- Tartar sauce or homemade remoulade
- A cold beer or lemonade to wash it down
Instructions
- Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Carefully place the coated fillets into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve the fried fish with French fries or sweet potato fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce or remoulade. Enjoy with a cold drink.
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