Classic Crispy Cod Fish Sandwich

A seafood sandwich, especially a crispy cod sandwich, is a delight that's hard to resist. Combining the crunch of fried cod with a soft bun creates a fish sandwich that's sure to please.

The Charm of a Crispy Cod Sandwich

Nothing captures the essence of a beach vacation quite like biting into a delicious fried fish sandwich. Picture yourself walking to a beach shack with sandy toes and feeling a salty breeze on your face. You order a crispy fish sandwich and a cold lemonade. Now, you can bring that seaside experience into your own home without the hassle of sand and sunburnt shoulders.

Enjoy a tasty crispy cod sandwich with tangy tartare sauce and a sweet brioche bun. The flavors will make you feel like you're at the shore.

Selecting the Best Cod

Choosing the right cod is crucial for your sandwich. For convenience, frozen cod fillets are an excellent choice. They are easy to store and have a long shelf life, making meal planning simpler.

One great place to buy high-quality frozen cod is from Fish For Skeptics. They specialize in providing sustainable seafood that's perfect for your sandwich. Just make sure to thaw the fillets properly before cooking.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make a classic crispy cod fish sandwich, you'll need the following ingredients:

Serves 4:

• 12oz Cod loins from Fish For Skeptics, cut into pieces
• Salt 
• Pepper
• 3 tsp Old Bay Seasoning (divided)
• 1 Egg
• ½ cup Flour
• 1 cup Panko
• Oil for frying (canola, grapeseed, or peanut oil) 

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Place the fish in the refrigerator overnight to defrost. When thawed, pat the fish completely dry, cut into 4-8 smaller pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2-4 inches of oil until a thermometer reads 350°F
3. Meanwhile, place flour, eggs, and panko in three separate shallow bowls. Season the flour with 1 tsp old bay seasoning and the panko with the remaining two teaspoons.
4. Take one piece of fish and put it in flour. Remove any extra flour and put it in eggs. Lastly, coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for the rest of the fish pieces. 
5. Place fish pieces in the hot oil in batches, be careful not to overcrowd your pot. Fry for 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Move the fish to a wire rack over a baking sheet or paper towel to catch any oil drippings. Sprinkle with salt while the fish is hot.

Tartar Sauce

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp sweet relish
• 2 tsp capers, roughly chopped
• 2 tsp fresh dill and/or parsley
• Zest and juice from ¼ lemon (or more to taste)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Stir everything together in a bowl and store in the fridge until ready to assemble your sandwich. The tartar sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead.

Assembling Your Sandwich

Once your cod is cooked and crispy, it's time to assemble your sandwich. Spread the tartar sauce on both sides of your bread, we recommend using Brioche burger buns. Place the crispy cod fillet on one slice, then add your preferred toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles and a squirt of hot sauce. Top with the second slice of bread and press gently to secure the sandwich.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

A crunchy fish sandwich is a filling meal. Adding a good side dish can make your meal even more enjoyable.

Here are some ideas:

• A side of crispy fries or sweet potato wedges
• A fresh green salad for a lighter option
• A bowl of creamy clam chowder for a full seafood feast
• A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer for the adults

The best pairing is one that complements your sandwich and suits your taste.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Delight

With this guide, you're all set to make and enjoy a classic crispy cod fish sandwich. Don't forget to source your cod from Fish For Skeptics for the best quality. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!