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Crispy Fried Fish Sandwich: Homemade Perfection with Tartar Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a crispy fried fish sandwich that evokes the charm of seaside eateries and classic British pubs. With a crunchy exterior giving way to succulent fish fillets, all enveloped in a soft bun and complemented by the tangy freshness of tartar sauce, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create the perfect crispy fried fish sandwich at home, complete with a homemade tartar sauce that will elevate your culinary creation to new heights.

Ingredients

For the Fish Sandwich:

• 4 pieces of firm white fish (cod, haddock, or pollock work beautifully)
• 150g plain flour
• 300ml cold sparkling water
• 100g breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 brioche or soft bread rolls
• Lettuce leaves (rocket or iceberg)
• Lime or lemon wedges, for serving
• Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)

For the Tartar Sauce:

• 200g mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp capers, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp dill pickles, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce

Start by making your tartar sauce, which can be prepared in advance. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped capers, dill pickles, parsley, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix everything well until combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully.

2. Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish fillets dry using a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for flavour, as the seasoning will penetrate the fish while frying.

3. Batter Up

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and a good pinch of salt. Gradually add in the cold sparkling water, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The carbonation from the sparkling water will help create that light, crispy texture.

4. Breading the Fish

Dip each seasoned fish fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the fillets in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.

5. Fry the Fish

Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and pour in enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle immediately), carefully place the battered fish fillets in the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, transfer the fish to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

6. Assemble Your Sandwich

Slice the brioche rolls in half and lightly toast them if desired. To assemble, place a layer of lettuce on the bottom half of the roll, followed by a crispy fried fish fillet. Generously dollop the homemade tartar sauce on top, then crown with the top half of the roll.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your fish sandwiches with lime or lemon wedges on the side. For a complete meal, pair them with a side of crispy chips or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

The crispy fried fish sandwich, with its golden batter and zesty tartar sauce, is a delicious nod to British culinary tradition. By preparing this dish at home, you not only control the quality and freshness of your ingredients but also indulge in a rewarding cooking experience. Perfect for a casual lunch or a delightful dinner, this sandwich captures the essence of comfort food. So grab your apron and dive into the world of homemade perfection—your taste buds will thank you!

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