Ingredients:

  • 4 White Fish Fillets (approx. 4 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp Salt & Black Pepper
  • 2 cups Neutral Oil (Vegetable, Canola, or Peanut), for frying
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (full fat)
  • 2 Tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
  • 1 tsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Finely Minced White Onion or Chives
  • 1/4 tsp Sugar
  • 4 Plain White Burger Buns
  • 4 slices American Cheese Singles

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce: Combine the mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, minced onion, and sugar in a small bowl. Whisk well until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more salt or lemon if needed). Cover and chill.
  2. Prep and Bread the Fish: Cut the fish fillets into squares approximately the size of the burger buns for the authentic look. Pat the fish squares extremely dry using paper towels.
  3. Set up the standard breading station: Dish 1 (Flour seasoned with salt/pepper), Dish 2 (Beaten Egg), Dish 3 (Breadcrumbs). Dredge each fish square sequentially: Flour, Egg, then firmly press Breadcrumbs onto all sides to create a thick, even crust. Place breaded fish on a plate.
  4. Fry the Fish: Heat the neutral oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place 1-2 fish fillets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  5. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the fish and immediately transfer it to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Season lightly with salt while hot.
  6. Steam the Buns: Bring a small amount of water to a simmer in a saucepan fitted with a steaming basket. Place the burger buns inside the basket, cover, and steam for 30–60 seconds until they are warm and incredibly soft. Do not over-steam.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Place a steaming hot, crispy fish fillet onto the bottom half of a steamed bun. Immediately place one slice of American cheese directly on top of the hot fish to melt. Generously spoon the prepared tartar sauce onto the cheese/fish. Top with the remaining bun half and serve immediately.