Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of crispy, golden battered cod paired with perfectly seasoned onion rings. This recipe is your go-to for recreating a fish and chips classic at home. Serve it with fries, tartar sauce, and malt vinegar for a full-on comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Skip the takeout and enjoy freshly fried cod and onion rings made in your kitchen.
- Customizable Batter: Choose between sparkling water or beer for a light, crispy texture.
- Perfect for Sharing: A great dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Battered Cod:
- 1 lb cod fillets, cut into portions
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cold sparkling water or beer
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cold sparkling water or beer
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce
- Malt vinegar
- Fries or chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Battered Cod
- Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and paprika. Slowly add the cold sparkling water or beer, whisking until the batter is smooth.
- Coat the Fish: Pat the cod fillets dry to ensure the batter adheres. Dip each fillet into the batter, letting the excess drip off.
- Fry the Cod: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the fillets for 4–5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Prepare the Onion Rings
- Mix the Batter: In another medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and paprika. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water or beer until the batter is smooth.
- Coat the Onion Rings: Dip the onion rings into the batter, shaking off the excess.
- Fry the Onion Rings: Fry the rings in the hot oil for 2–3 minutes, until crispy and golden. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
3. Assemble and Serve
- Assemble the Basket: Arrange the fried cod and onion rings in a basket or on a serving platter. Add fries or chips for a complete meal.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with tartar sauce and malt vinegar for dipping.
Tips for the Best Battered Cod and Onion Rings
- Keep It Cold: Cold sparkling water or beer helps create a light, crispy batter.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even browning.
- Dry Ingredients First: Pat the fish and onions dry before battering to prevent the coating from sliding off.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Battered Cod and Onion Rings Basket with:
- Classic Fries: Crispy, golden fries are the perfect side.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy side dish to balance the richness.
- Homemade Tartar Sauce: Mix mayo, pickles, lemon juice, and dill for a creamy dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat the fish dry before battering.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil works well due to their high smoke points.
How can I make the batter gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
This Battered Cod and Onion Rings Basket is the ultimate crispy comfort food. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend indulgence, this dish delivers on flavor and texture. Serve it hot with your favorite sauces and sides for a restaurant-quality meal at home.