On a lazy Sunday afternoon, the scent of crispy, golden fish sizzling in hot oil fills my kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. It reminds me of beach days spent enjoying fresh seafood with family and friends. The moment you bite into a homemade Fried Fish Burger, it’s like taking a trip to the coast without leaving your home. This recipe not only showcases the flaky, tender fish paired perfectly with a creamy tartar sauce and crunchy coleslaw, but it also brings the joy of fresh, homemade goodness to your table.
In just 20 minutes, you can transform ordinary fish fillets into a satisfying burger that rivals any drive-thru option. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll deliver a meal that’s not just delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s put away the fast food and embrace a healthier, tastier alternative that’s bound to become a new family favorite!
Why is Fried Fish Burger so Irresistible?
Crispy, golden goodness: The combination of perfectly battered fish and toasted brioche creates a delicious contrast that will make your taste buds dance.
Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
Family-approved: This recipe is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, perfect for a cozy dinner or weekend gathering.
Flexibility in flavors: Customize your burger by adding your favorite toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or even a spicy aioli.
Healthier option: Ditch the greasy takeout and feel good about serving a homemade dinner that’s fresh and fulfilling.
Don’t forget to check out how to make a perfect side dish to elevate your meal further; it’s all about balance and enhancement!
Fried Fish Burger Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – this forms the base of your batter for a crispy texture.
- Baking powder – it helps the batter rise and become light and airy.
- Salt – enhances the overall flavor of the batter.
- Eggs – act as a binder, giving your batter structure.
- Sparkling water or beer – using beer adds depth and flavor for an extra crispy fried fish burger.
- Fresh dill – gives a refreshing flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
For the Fish
- White fish – choose a flaky variety like cod or haddock for the best result.
- Salt – sprinkling it on the fish before cooking enhances the taste.
For the Frying
- Vegetable oil – needed in abundance for deep frying to achieve that perfect golden crust.
For the Assembly
- Coleslaw – adds a crunchy texture and freshness to your burger.
- Tartar sauce – the creamy, zesty condiment that brings everything together.
- Brioche buns – soft, slightly sweet buns that elevate your fried fish burger experience.
How to Make Fried Fish Burger
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Prepare the Fish: Start by cutting the fish into filets, patting each piece dry with a paper towel, and sprinkling both sides with salt to enhance the flavor.
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Heat the Oil: In your deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F. This temperature is essential for achieving that crispy, golden exterior.
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Mix the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, sparkling water (or beer), and fresh dill. Stir until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
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Dip and Fry: Carefully dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Gently place the fillet into the hot oil, ensuring it doesn’t splash.
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Fry Until Golden: Cook the fish for about 2 minutes on each side. Turn the fillets halfway through to achieve a nice, golden brown color on both sides. Each piece should take about 5 minutes total.
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Drain the Oil: Once cooked, place the fillets on a paper towel-lined sheet to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
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Assemble the Burger: On a brioche bun, layer the crispy fish fillet with a generous helping of coleslaw and a dollop of tartar sauce. This combination is key for that perfect bite!
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Serve Up: Enjoy your fried fish burgers with a side of fries or ripple chips for extra crunch!
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Fried Fish Burger Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your fried fish burger with these exciting twists that will make your taste buds sing!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously crispy batter. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the batter for a bold, spicy flavor that elevates the dish. Just a pinch goes a long way!
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Herb-Infused: Mix finely chopped parsley, chives, or thyme into your batter for an aromatic touch that enhances the fish. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor with every bite.
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Panko Crunch: Swap regular flour for panko breadcrumbs after dipping the fish in batter. This creates an even crunchier texture that’s utterly addictive.
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Bun Alternatives: Use whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free buns instead of brioche for a different take. Each option creates a unique flavor profile to explore!
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Vegan Version: Replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture and use a plant-based batter to create a vegan-friendly fried fish alternative without losing that satisfying crunch.
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Tropical Twist: Top your burger with a slice of pineapple or mango salsa for a refreshing tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the fish. Sweet meets savory in every bite!
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Zingy Sauce: Upgrade your tartar sauce by adding a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime for an extra layer of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
Expert Tips for Fried Fish Burger
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Choose Fresh Fish: Use the freshest white fish available for the best flavor and texture in your fried fish burger.
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Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is smooth and not too thick to achieve a light, crispy coating on the fish.
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Oil Temperature: Always maintain the oil at 350°F. If it’s too hot, the fish will burn; too cold, and it will become greasy.
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Avoid Crowding: Fry the fish in small batches. Overcrowding the fryer can lower the temperature and lead to soggy burgers.
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Rest the Fillets: Let your cooked fish rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, ensuring a crispy finish in your fried fish burger.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment by adding pickles, cheese, or different sauces to elevate your fried fish burger experience!
What to Serve with Fried Fish Burger?
Create the perfect meal pairing to enjoy this crispy delight even more!
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Crunchy French Fries: Their hot, crispy texture enhances each bite of the fish burger, creating a satisfying crunch with every mouthful.
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Tartar Sauce Dipping Platter: Serve additional tartar sauce on the side for a creamy dip that complements your flavors beautifully.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade provides a zesty contrast, balancing the richness of the fried fish perfectly.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: This smoky side offers a sweet and juicy burst that pairs wonderfully with the crispy fish burger. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Garden Salad: Light and vibrant, a garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, cutting through the richness of the fried fish.
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Coleslaw: Since it’s already in the burger, serving extra coleslaw on the side amplifies its crunchy texture and tangy flavor, creating a delightful contrast.
Indulge in a feast that not only satisfies your cravings but also ignites joy in every bite!
How to Store and Freeze Fried Fish Burger
Room Temperature: Fry your fish burgers and enjoy them fresh for the best taste. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftover fried fish burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To retain crispiness, separate the fish from the buns and toppings until ready to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual fried fish fillets tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor. Avoid freezing assembled burgers to maintain texture.
Reheating: To reheat, bake fish fillets in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Assemble your Fried Fish Burger with fresh ingredients afterward for a delightful meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Fish Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fish filets by cutting and patting them dry with paper towels up to 24 hours in advance; just sprinkle salt on both sides to enhance the flavor before refrigerating. Additionally, you can mix the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; this ensures it’s ready to go when you’re ready to fry. When it’s time to serve, simply heat your oil, dip the chilled fish filets into the batter, and fry them until golden brown. This way, you’ll have a quick and delightful homemade meal, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Fried Fish Burger Recipe FAQs
What type of fish is best for a Fried Fish Burger?
Absolutely! For a perfect Fried Fish Burger, I recommend using flaky white fish varieties like cod, haddock, or even tilapia. These types of fish not only hold their shape well during frying but also have a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the batter and toppings.
How should I store leftover Fried Fish Burgers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Fried Fish Burgers in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to separate the fish from the buns and toppings for optimal taste and texture. They can be stored for up to 3 days. I often put the fish in one container and the buns and coleslaw in another to prevent them from getting mushy.
Can I freeze Fried Fish Burgers? How?
Yes, you can freeze the fish for later use! First, allow the cooked fillets to cool completely. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the fillets from frozen in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Assemble your Fried Fish Burger with fresh ingredients afterwards for a delightful meal!
How do I achieve the perfect batter for my Fried Fish Burger?
Great question! To perfect your batter, start with your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) whisked together in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and add the sparkling water or beer gently, ensuring not to overmix. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth but slightly lumpy; this gives a light, crispy texture. If you prefer an extra crunch, feel free to experiment with adding a bit of cornstarch to the flour mix as well!
What if my fish looks soggy after frying?
Very! If your fish ends up soggy, it’s often due to the oil temperature being too low while frying. Ensure your oil is consistently heated to 350°F during the cooking process; this will result in a crispy, golden finish. Also, make sure to drain the fried fish on paper towels immediately after cooking to absorb excess oil. It can help keep your Fried Fish Burger deliciously crisp!
Crispy Fried Fish Burger: Your New Favorite Homemade Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Fish: Start by cutting the fish into filets, patting each piece dry with a paper towel, and sprinkling both sides with salt to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the Oil: In your deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F. This temperature is essential for achieving that crispy, golden exterior.
- Mix the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, sparkling water (or beer), and fresh dill. Stir until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
- Dip and Fry: Carefully dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Gently place the fillet into the hot oil, ensuring it doesn’t splash.
- Fry Until Golden: Cook the fish for about 2 minutes on each side. Turn the fillets halfway through to achieve a nice, golden brown color on both sides. Each piece should take about 5 minutes total.
- Drain the Oil: Once cooked, place the fillets on a paper towel-lined sheet to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
- Assemble the Burger: On a brioche bun, layer the crispy fish fillet with a generous helping of coleslaw and a dollop of tartar sauce.
- Serve Up: Enjoy your fried fish burgers with a side of fries or ripple chips for extra crunch!
