If you’re craving the freshest crunch and vibrant flavors of a truly satisfying fish fry, welcome to your new obsession: Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce. This recipe captures everything you adore about pub-style fish and chips, only better because it brings that golden, airy coating and zesty tartar sauce right to your own kitchen. With a few pantry staples, a splash of effervescent club soda, and some quick-mix magic, you get moist, flaky cod wrapped in a crispy, shattering crust that’s impossible to resist. Pair that with the creamy, tangy bite of homemade tartar sauce, and every bite will remind you why simple, well-made comfort food is so special.

Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how easy it is to create authentic Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce at home. Each ingredient, no matter how everyday it may seem, plays a crucial part in building irresistible layers of taste and texture. Don’t be fooled by the short list: these are carefully chosen for that classic fish-fry flavor, an ultra-snappy crust, and rich tangy sauce to dip.

Cod fillets (1 1/2 lbs, cut into portions): Choose thick, firm fillets for a flaky, tender interior that holds up perfectly after frying.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): The foundation of the light, crisp batter and also helps the batter adhere to the cod.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): This gives the batter those lift-off-the-fish bubbles for extra crunch and lightness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the batter and bringing out the subtle flavors of both cod and sauce.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and depth to the crispy coating.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a hint of color and a sweet, smoky complexity.
Cold sparkling water or club soda (1 cup): The secret to an airy, crisp crust; the bubbles make all the difference!
Vegetable oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to get that glorious golden color without overpowering the fish.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy, tangy base for your homemade tartar sauce.
Finely chopped pickles or relish (2 tablespoons): Add a zesty bite and texture to the tartar sauce.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens both your sauce and your entire plate, balancing the richness of the batter.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): For a subtle tang and warmth in the tartar sauce.
Finely chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Gives a burst of freshness and color to the sauce.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Personalize your tartar sauce and finish as needed, ensuring every element sings.

How to Make Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika in a good-sized mixing bowl. Now, pour in the cold sparkling water slowly (the colder it is, the crispier your batter will be!) and whisk until smooth and thick. This bubbly batter is the secret behind the signature crunch of Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce. By making the batter first, you ensure it’s ready to wrap your cod in a light, tempura-style cloak just minutes later.

Step 2: Prep Your Cod

Blot the cod fillets dry with paper towels—don’t skip this step! Removing excess moisture guarantees that the batter adheres well and fries up crisp, not soggy. Divide the fillets into portions if needed. For an even crispier crust, you can very lightly dust the cod with flour before dipping into the batter.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach 350°F, which is hot enough to crisp the batter quickly without absorbing too much oil. Use a thermometer for accuracy, or test with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Fry the Cod

Dip each cod piece into the batter, letting the excess drip away, then carefully lower it into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until irresistibly golden, crisp, and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate so any excess oil is wicked away. That’s your golden ticket to the perfect Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce!

Step 5: Make the Homemade Tartar Sauce

While the cod is frying, stir together mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until creamy and uniform. If you have time, chill it in the fridge—it gets even better as the flavors meld! The tangy, herby punch of this sauce is the perfect punctuation for every crunchy, steamy bite of fish.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve the crispy fried cod hot from the fryer, with generous dollops of tartar sauce and lemon wedges on the side. Right here is where all your simple ingredients come together as something truly special: Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce, ready to make memories around the table!

How to Serve Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Garnishes

For a touch of color and extra zing, scatter freshly chopped parsley over the crisp fried cod and add lemon wedges for a burst of brightness. A sprinkle of flaky salt right as the fish comes out of the oil can elevate it to restaurant-worthy glory.

Side Dishes

This dish is a total showstopper when paired with chunky fries or classic potato wedges and a cool, creamy coleslaw. For lighter fare, try a simple green salad or even buttered peas. These sides are all about contrast: cool and crunchy, hearty and soft, creating the ultimate Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cod fillets artisanally on a wooden board lined with parchment, pop tartar sauce into a small ramekin, and scatter over a handful of pea shoots for a modern bistro feel. Or go classic: dish up everything in a basket lined with newspaper for nostalgic, authentic fish and chips vibes. The best part? However you serve it, you’re guaranteed smiles all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with extras, let the cod cool completely, then tuck it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The tartar sauce also stores beautifully in the fridge, tightly covered, for three to four days. Reuniting the two later brings back the magic, bite after bite.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange the cooled fried cod pieces on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready for an impromptu feast, you’ll have a batch of Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce just a reheat away.

Reheating

To regain that fresh-from-the-fryer crispness, reheat cod fillets straight from the fridge or freezer in a 400°F oven. Arrange them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for best airflow and cook until hot and crispy, about 10–12 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can—it softens that coveted crunch!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While cod is a classic choice, haddock, pollock, or even halibut will work well for Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce. Just choose a mild white fish with a firm texture for best results.

What’s the trick to making the batter extra crispy?

The key is keeping the sparkling water super cold and not overmixing the batter. Frying at the right temperature (350°F) also ensures your cod cooks quickly and the crust stays crackly and light, which is what you want for perfect Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to mix the batter just before you’re ready to fry. If it sits too long, the bubbles will dissipate and the batter can lose its crisping power. For speedy assembly, prep your dry ingredients and chill your liquid in advance!

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap in a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’ll enjoy the same fantastic flavor and crunch.

What can I use instead of homemade tartar sauce?

While the homemade version really makes this dish pop, you can use store-bought tartar sauce or even a zesty aioli in a pinch. Or, get creative—try a spicy sriracha mayo for a twist on the classic Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce.

Final Thoughts

Sharing a plate of Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce feels like a celebration, no matter what day it is. It’s crispy, golden, and irresistibly good, whether you’re making it for a crowd or a cozy dinner at home. Take the plunge and try this irresistible classic—you’re going to love every last bite!

Crispy Fried Cod with Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make crispy fried cod with a flavorful homemade tartar sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. This classic fish fry recipe is perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Crispy Fried Cod:

1 1/2 lbs cod fillets (cut into portions)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup cold sparkling water (or club soda)
vegetable oil for frying

Tartar Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or relish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Crispy Fried Cod: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk in cold sparkling water until smooth. Pat cod fillets dry, then dip into batter. Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Tartar Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
Serve the crispy fried cod hot with tartar sauce on the side and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For extra crunch, dredge the cod in a light layer of flour before dipping into the batter.
You can also use beer instead of sparkling water for a classic beer batter flavor.
Serve with fries or coleslaw for a full meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American