When it comes to indulging in a crispy, golden-brown piece of fish, there’s nothing quite like a well-crafted fried fish recipe. Whether you’re looking for a classic Southern twist or a bold international flavor, our collection of 18 Crispy Fried Fish Recipes has got you covered.
From the comfort foods of childhood, like beer-battered fish and chips, to the exotic flavors of Korean-Style Fried Fish with Gochujang Glaze, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? Each one is designed to be a showstopper for any occasion – whether that’s a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or even a special celebration.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the diverse flavors and techniques that make each of these crispy fried fish recipes truly unique. So grab your apron, preheat your fryer, and get ready to dive into a world of crunchy, flavorful goodness.
Classic Southern Fried Catfish
Get ready to savor a southern staple with this crispy and delicious catfish recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (1 pound each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes for all four fillets.
Beer-Battered Fish and Chips
Get ready for a classic pub favorite with this easy-to-make beer-battered fish and chips recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pale lager beer
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 cups potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Cooking spray or oil for potato chips
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, beer, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
2. Dip fish strips into the batter, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with potato chips cooked in the same oil until crispy.
Cooking Time:
– Fish: 3-4 minutes
– Potato Chips: about 3-5 minutes
Crispy Coconut Fried Fish
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering Crispy Coconut Fried Fish recipe! With the perfect blend of crispy coconut flakes and flaky fish, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, coconut flakes, and paprika.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Fried Tilapia
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with this bold and flavorful dish! Crispy fried tilapia gets a kick from the classic Cajun seasoning blend, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the Cajun spice mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Fried Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic garlic butter fried salmon recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a portion of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized on top.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Japanese Tempura Fried Fish
Experience the crispy delight of Japanese tempura with this simple recipe for pan-fried fish. Using a light and airy batter, you’ll create a delectable dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tempura dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: sesame seeds and grated daikon radish for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Dip each piece of fish into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with tempura dipping sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and grated daikon radish if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch
Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Perch
A twist on traditional fish fry, this recipe uses cornmeal for a crispy and flavorful crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 perch fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each perch fillet into the egg, then coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Fry the coated perch fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Herb Fried Cod
Brighten up your dinner with this refreshing twist on traditional fried cod. The tangy zip of lemon and the subtlety of fresh herbs add a delightful depth to this crispy, golden-brown fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cod fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry cod for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Transfer cod to a baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with parsley and dill.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean-Style Fried Fish with Gochujang Glaze
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of Korea’s beloved fried fish, elevated by a sticky gochujang glaze. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dip fish strips into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil to make the glaze.
5. Brush the glaze over fried fish during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately with additional gochujang glaze for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panko-Crusted Fried Halibut
Delightfully crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, this Panko-crusted fried halibut recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. With its light and airy coating, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each halibut fillet in buttermilk, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated halibut for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Place the fried halibut on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and keep warm in the oven while cooking the remaining fillets.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Thai Sweet Chili Fried Fish
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this sweet and spicy fried fish recipe. A perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of fish (cod or tilapia work well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each piece of fish into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the fish pieces until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove the fish from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together Thai sweet chili sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
7. Place the fried fish back into the skillet and pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the top.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total cooking time.
Blackened Red Snapper
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this simple and delicious Blackened Red Snapper recipe. This spicy dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, featuring a crispy blackened crust on the outside and a flaky fish interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, divided
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dredge each fillet in the blackening spice mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Heat 1 tbsp butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a fillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fish is cooked through.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and remaining butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Get ready to catch a flavorful wave with these crispy fried fish tacos smothered in a zesty lime crema!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lime crema (see below)
– Tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip fish pieces into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry fish in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve with lime crema, tortillas, and desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Old Bay Seasoned Fried Flounder
Experience the perfect blend of crispy, golden brown fish and savory Old Bay seasoning with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 flounder fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dredge the flounder fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the flounder for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Fried Fish Sandwich with Tartar Sauce
Get ready for a taste of the coast with this classic combination of crispy fried fish, soft bread, and tangy tartar sauce. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (cod or haddock work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing fried fish on hamburger buns, topping with tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Indian Spiced Fried Mackerel
This recipe combines the richness of mackerel with the bold flavors of Indian spices, making it a perfect fusion dish for a quick and satisfying meal. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this Spiced Fried Mackerel is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cumin, coriander, garam masala, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each mackerel fillet in the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the spice mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated mackerel for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fried Whole Fish with Ginger Scallion Sauce
Experience the simplicity and bold flavors of Asian-inspired cooking with this mouthwatering fried fish dish, perfectly accompanied by a zesty ginger scallion sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 1.5 lbs), scaled and gutted
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pat the fish dry with paper towels and season with salt.
3. Dredge the fish in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the fish for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine ginger, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
6. Serve the fried fish with the warm Ginger Scallion Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Fish Fillets
Get perfectly crispy fish fillets with minimal effort using your Air Fryer! This recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers who crave that golden-brown crust without deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Brush both sides of the fish fillets with olive oil, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated fish fillets in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of fried fish! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion. From classic Southern catfish to Japanese tempura, and from spicy Cajun tilapia to Indian spiced mackerel, there’s something for everyone. Discover new flavors like beer-battered fish and chips, coconut-crusted perch, and Korean-style fish with gochujang glaze. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting Southern meal or an exotic international dish, these recipes will take your taste buds on a journey.
