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Crispy Air Fryer Fish Sandwich: A Simple Seafood Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your lunchtime routine with something delicious yet easy to prepare, the crispy air fryer fish sandwich could be just what you need. This recipe incorporates tender, flaky fish fillets, seasoned to perfection, and a delightful crunch, thanks to the power of the air fryer. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is bound to please.

Ingredients

For the Fish Fillets:

• 2 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or your choice)
• 1/2 cup plain flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice

For the Sandwich:

• 2 brioche or soft burger buns
• Lettuce (cos or iceberg)
• Tomato slices
• Tartar sauce or your preferred sauce
• Optional: pickles or sliced onion

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by patting the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, prepare the coating. In the first, combine the plain flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In the second dish, beat the egg. In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Fish: Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the fillet in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. For an extra crunch, you can double coat the fish by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for around 5 minutes. This ensures that your fish gets an even, crispy finish.

5. Air Fry the Fish: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the coated fish fillets in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with more oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

6. Assemble the Sandwich: While the fish is cooking, prepare your brioche buns. Lightly toast them if you prefer some extra crunch. Spread a generous dollop of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with lettuce, followed by the crispy fish fillet, and top with tomato slices and any additional toppings you fancy, such as pickles or onion.

7. Serve: Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun, and serve immediately. Accompany with a side of chips or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Fish Options: While cod and haddock are popular choices, you can also use fish like pollock or even salmon for a richer flavour.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the plain flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs.
• Additional Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mix, such as Italian herbs or lemon zest, to customise the flavour to your liking.
• Nutritional Boost: Add slices of avocado or a dollop of guacamole for added creaminess and healthy fats.

Conclusion

The crispy air fryer fish sandwich is not only a quick and easy meal option but also a delightful treat that delivers on flavour and texture. With the air fryer cutting down on excess oil, you can savour this classic dish with less guilt and hassle. Perfect for both casual lunches and casual leisurely dinners, this sandwich is sure to become a regular feature on your dining table. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the sea, all from the comfort of your own home!