Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs fresh cod fillets, cut into 4-inch pieces
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tbsp water
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp dill pickles, finely minced
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp dijon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Pat the cod fillets extremely dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres properly. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika; one with the beaten eggs and water; and one with the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Coat each fillet first in the flour (shaking off excess), then dip into the egg wash, and finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  4. Heat 1 inch of oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully fry the cod for 3–4 minutes per side until the coating is deep golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Transfer the fish to a wire cooling rack to maintain crispness. Serve immediately with the prepared tartar sauce (whisked mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, dill, and mustard).