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Crispy Panko Crusted Cod: A Deliciously Simple British Delight

When it comes to British cuisine, fish and chips may be the first dish that springs to mind. However, there’s a lighter, crispy alternative that is making waves in the culinary scene: Crispy Panko Crusted Cod. With its delicate fish paired with a crunchy exterior, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful twist on traditional fish fare. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe that can easily become a family favourite.

The Appeal of Panko Breadcrumbs

Originating from Japan, Panko breadcrumbs have become increasingly popular in British kitchens. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, Panko is made from bread without crusts, resulting in a lighter, airier texture. This gives dishes a wonderfully crispy finish that’s particularly desirable for frying and baking. When paired with cod – a flaky, mild white fish that is beloved across the UK – you create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also beautifully presented.

Selecting Your Cod

For the best results, it’s important to choose quality cod. Look for fresh (or sustainably frozen) fillets that are firm and moist, with a bright white flesh. Sustainability is key, so consider sourcing your fish from responsible suppliers. When shopping, you may come across various types of cod, including Atlantic and Pacific; either will work well for this recipe, but make sure the fish is wild-caught or sustainably farmed.

Recipe: Crispy Panko Crusted Cod

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (approximately 150g each)
• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 150g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, to serve

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with kitchen paper; this helps the coating adhere better. Season them generously with salt and pepper.

2. Set Up the Breading Station: Place the plain flour in one shallow dish. In a second dish, add the beaten eggs. In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Coat the Fillets: Dredge each cod fillet in the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the fillet into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

4. Fry the Cod: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the panko-crusted cod. Fry for around 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

5. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Panko Crusted Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic approach, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, mushy peas, or homemade tartar sauce. For a more contemporary twist, try it with a zesty citrus quinoa salad or on top of a bed of sautéed greens. The options are endless!

Conclusion

Crispy Panko Crusted Cod is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner, but the light crunch of the panko adds a unique texture that elevates this dish beyond your average fish meal. Give it a go, and you may find yourself reaching for it time and again, proving that British cuisine can be as innovative as it is traditional. Enjoy the crunch!

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