If you’re craving the crispy, golden fish batter from Long John Silver’s but prefer to make it at home, this copycat recipe is perfect for you. This batter is not only great for fish but also works wonderfully for other fried favorites. With just a few simple ingredients and some tips for perfect frying, you can achieve that restaurant-quality crunch right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- ● 8 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ● 2 cups flour
- ● 1/4 cup corn starch
- ● 2 teaspoons sugar
- ● 2 teaspoons salt
- ● 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- ● 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- ● 1/2 teaspoon onion salt
- ● 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- ● 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ● 16 ounces club soda
- ● 2 pounds cod or other white fish (sliced into 3-ounce pieces)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat Oil:
- Heat 8 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a fryer or heavy pot.
2️⃣ Prepare Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, corn starch, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, onion salt, paprika, and ground black pepper. Stir to mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add the club soda to the dry ingredients while stirring. The batter will foam and become slightly thick.
3️⃣ Coat Fish:
- Dip the fish pieces into the batter, ensuring they are well coated.
4️⃣ Fry Fish:
- Carefully lower the battered fish into the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the batter is golden and the fish pieces float to the top of the oil.
5️⃣ Drain:
- Remove the fish from the oil and drain on a wire rack to keep it crispy.
Cooking Tips
- Prevent Sticking: To avoid the batter sticking to the bottom of the basket, gently lower the fish into the oil and hold it for a few seconds to form a crust before fully immersing it.
- Flavor Variation: For an extra kick, you can substitute the club soda with beer.
- Extra Batter Uses: If you have leftover batter, slice up some onions and use it to make delicious onion rings!
Enjoy this crispy, golden fish batter at home, and savor the taste of your favorite restaurant-style fish. Perfect for a family meal or casual get-together!