Crispy Fried Fish with Zesty Lemon Mustard Dipping Sauce

This Crispy Fried Fish with Zesty Lemon Mustard Dipping Sauce is a delightfully crunchy, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The fish fillets are coated with a seasoned, crispy panko breadcrumb mixture, giving them a golden-brown crust while remaining tender and flaky on the inside. Paired with a tangy and creamy dipping sauce with hints of lemon and mustard, this dish is perfect for family dinners, appetizers, or special occasions. Let’s get started on making this satisfying and easy-to-follow recipe.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • For the Fish:
    • 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 eggs, beaten
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • For the Dipping Sauce:
    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
    • 1 tbsp honey
    • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional for spice)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

  1. Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels, then season them on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow dishes for breading. Place the flour in the first dish. In the second dish, add the beaten eggs. In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Fish

  1. Coat the Fish in Flour: Dredge each fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip in Egg Mixture: Next, dip the flour-coated fillet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  3. Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs: Finally, press the fillet into the panko mixture, coating it well on both sides for an even, crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C) or until a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in.
  2. Fry the Fish: Carefully add the breaded fillets to the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
  3. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried fish from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and hot sauce (if using).
  2. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as desired.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve the crispy fried fish hot with the zesty lemon mustard dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 4 servings

  • Calories: ~400 kcal
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Sugar: 3g

FAQs:

Q: Can I bake the fish instead of frying?
A: Yes! For a healthier option, bake the breaded fish fillets at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.

Q: Can I use a different type of fish?
A: Absolutely! White fish like halibut or sea bass work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed, depending on thickness.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q: What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
A: Greek yogurt or sour cream are great substitutes for mayonnaise, providing a creamy base with a lighter texture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Crispy Fried Fish:

  1. Pat the Fish Dry: Removing excess moisture from the fish helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier crust.
  2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  3. Preheat the Oil: Ensuring the oil is hot before frying prevents the breading from absorbing excess oil and becoming soggy.
  4. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the fillets in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
  5. Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the fried fish as soon as it’s done frying.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover fried fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze breaded, uncooked fish fillets on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, fry or bake directly from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy. Instead, reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

Conclusion:

This Crispy Fried Fish with Zesty Lemon Mustard Dipping Sauce is an irresistible recipe that combines the best of texture and flavor. The breaded fish, perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, pairs beautifully with the zesty, creamy dipping sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers, this dish can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether served for a family meal or as an appetizer for guests, this fried fish recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every bite of this crunchy, tangy, and savory delight!