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Unbelievable Fish Batter

Unbelievable Fish Batter

This golden fish batter recipe delivers a perfectly crunchy, flavorful coating every single time — and it comes together in just minutes using pantry staples. Seasoned with salt and customizable with bold additions like smoked paprika, Old Bay, or cayenne, this batter works beautifully for a classic fish and chips dinner or loaded fish tacos night.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • ½ cup Milk
  • ½ cup Water ice cold
  • 1½ tsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 lbs White fish fillets cod, tilapia, or halibut
  • 4 cups Vegetable or canola oil for frying

Instructions
 

Make the Batter:

  • 1. Gather all ingredients and set up your workstation before starting.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, ice-cold water, baking powder, and salt until a smooth, lump-free batter forms.

To Fry:

  • 1. Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 365°F (185°C).
    2. Pat fish fillets completely dry using paper towels, then dip each fillet into the batter, coating both sides evenly.
    3. Carefully lower coated fillets one at a time into the hot oil. Avoid crowding the pan. Fry in batches, flipping once, until each piece is golden and cooked through — approximately 2 minutes per side.
    4. Remove fillets and place on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
    5. Serve immediately while hot and crispy — enjoy!

Notes

 
  • Keep water ice cold for the crispiest results — add a few ice cubes before measuring.
  • Don't over-mix the batter; small lumps are perfectly fine.
  • Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy fish.
  • Use a thermometer to keep the oil steady at 365°F throughout cooking.
  • Leftover fried fish keeps in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes to restore crunch.
 

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

 
  • Calories: 88
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Total Fat: 1g
    • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 2mg
  • Sodium: 851mg
  • Calcium: 299mg
  • Iron: 1mg
  • Potassium: 52mg
  • Vitamin C: 0mg