Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

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Golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor, the Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. Picture a buttery brioche bun hugging a crispy fillet of flaky cod, dressed with tangy pickles, zesty tartar sauce, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato slices. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the tender, moist fish inside, making it an irresistible treat for lunch or dinner.

Whether you’re craving a classic fish sandwich or looking to impress guests with a homemade favorite, this recipe has you covered. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or weekend cookouts, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with fries, coleslaw, or even a light salad. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this crispy delight.

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What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen cod fillets work wonderfully for this sandwich. Look for firm, white-fleshed cod with a mild aroma. Frozen fillets should be fully thawed and patted dry before use. You can also substitute with haddock or pollock if cod isn’t available, but cod’s flaky texture and mild flavor make it the star.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

• Cod fillets: The heart of the sandwich; flaky, mild, and perfect for frying.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the batter stick and adds crispness.
• Cornmeal: Gives extra crunch and golden color to the coating.
• Eggs: Bind the coating to the fish.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderizes the fish slightly.
• Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper): For flavoring the batter.
• Brioche buns: Soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold everything.
• Pickles and red onion: Add a tangy crunch.
• Lettuce and tomato: Freshness and juiciness.
• Tartar sauce: Creamy, tangy, and essential for that classic fish sandwich taste.
• Vegetable oil: For frying to crispy perfection.

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How To Make the Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with buttermilk until smooth.

Step 2: Dredge the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture for an extra crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Cod

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated cod fillets into the hot oil, frying for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast the brioche buns lightly. Spread tartar sauce on the bottom half, layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and the crispy fried cod. Top with pickles and red onion slices, then cap it with the top bun.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sandwiches immediately while hot, paired with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Serving and Storing the Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich

Serve the Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich fresh and hot for the ultimate crunchy bite. Pair it with crispy fries, tangy coleslaw, or even sweet potato wedges for a fun twist. If you have leftovers, store the fried cod separately from the buns and toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop the fillets in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again—avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs or cornmeal. Make sure the buns are gluten-free as well.

Can I bake the cod instead of frying it?

Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping once, until crispy and cooked through.

What’s the best oil for frying fish?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best because they have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the fish flavor.

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating.

How do I keep the fish crispy for serving?

Place fried fillets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a warm oven (about 200°F) until ready to assemble.

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Want More Sandwich Ideas?

If you’re loving this Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich, you’ll probably enjoy these other mouthwatering favorites:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a rich and savory twist.
• Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce if you crave crispy cutlets with bold flavors.
• Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a Middle Eastern street food vibe.
• Homemade El Pollo Loco Copycat for smoky, grilled chicken perfection.
• Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion to add a crunchy appetizer to your meal lineup.

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And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add a spicy mayo or maybe swap in a brioche pretzel bun? Drop a comment and share your version. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!

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