If you love the crispy, golden-brown fish from Long John Silver’s, then this homemade version of their famous batter will become your go-to recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the restaurant-style fish fry experience right in your kitchen. This batter is light, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned to complement any fish fillet. Whether you’re hosting a fish fry at home or just craving a quick seafood meal, this recipe is a must-try.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process, from preparation to frying, ensuring that your fish turns out crisp and delicious every time. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of your favorite seafood restaurant to your home!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 5–7 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
To make the perfect Long John Silver’s style fish batter, you will need:
Dry Ingredients:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup cold water
For Frying:
- 4 fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
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Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures a light, airy batter. -
Add Water
Slowly pour in the cold water while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until the batter is smooth and has a slightly thick consistency. The cold water helps create a crispier texture when frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
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Choose the Right Fish
Select firm, white fish fillets such as cod, haddock, or tilapia. These fish hold up well to frying and have a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy batter. -
Pat Dry the Fillets
Using a paper towel, gently pat the fish fillets dry. Removing excess moisture helps the batter stick to the fish and ensures even frying. -
Coat the Fish
Dip each fish fillet into the batter, ensuring that it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before frying.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
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Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the fish. -
Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Carefully lower the battered fish into the hot oil. Fry for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is golden brown and crispy. -
Drain and Serve
Remove the fried fish from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil, keeping the fish light and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Your crispy Long John Silver’s style fish pairs wonderfully with:
- French fries or potato wedges
- Coleslaw for a refreshing side
- Tartar sauce or lemon wedges for extra flavor
- A side of hush puppies for a classic seafood meal
Tips for Perfect Crispy Fish
- Use Cold Water: The key to a crispy batter is keeping the water cold, which helps create a light, airy texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Season Immediately: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the fried fish as soon as it comes out of the oil for extra flavor.
- Try Air Frying: If you want a healthier version, you can air fry the battered fish at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Recreating Long John Silver’s crispy fish at home is easier than you think. With just a handful of pantry staples and the right frying technique, you can achieve that signature crunch and golden color. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special fish fry gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Now that you’ve mastered this classic fried fish recipe, why not pair it with homemade hush puppies, air-fried blooming onions, or crispy fried chicken wings for the ultimate feast? Enjoy your homemade seafood delight, and happy cooking!