Deep frying fish is a great way to cook fish
to a tasty, beautiful golden brown, and perfect crispy crust. This
method of
cooking fish is the most common way used to make fish-n-chips.
Deep Frying Oils
This method involves cooking fish in a total submersion of
fat. The fat is usually oils of canola, corn, cottonseed, peanut, pure
olive, safflower, sunflower, or solid vegetable shortening. The choice
of a good oil is up to you according to your taste. Peanut oil is very
nice choice for deep frying fish.
Deep Frying Temperature
Other
than a deep fryer, a
deep pan or wok can be used
Other than a deep fryer, a deep pan or a wok can be used
instead. Fill up the cooking vessel to about 1/3 to 1/2 full of oil,
but no more than 2/3 full so as to avoid boil-overs. Heat the cooking
oil until
it reaches the smoke point of 375°.
It's
important to maintain the cooking oil at the correct
temperature. If the temp drops down below 350°, then the fish will
begin to absorb the cooking oil and it will become greasy and soggy. If
it rises above 375°, the fish will overcook on the outside without
cooking the inside.
A deep frying thermometer is a great way to help maintain and
adjust the temperature of the oil.
Deep Frying
Pieces, strips, fillets, or whole fish that are less than 1½
inches thick are best to use when deep frying fish. You can coat them
in a breading or the batter of your choice. Dredging the fish in flour
first can help the batter to stick.
Gently add just a few pieces at a time to the hot oil.
Be sure
not to overcrowd it because the temperature of the oil will drop when
food is added to it.
Cook for a few minutes until they're done. They should be a
nice golden brown on the outside, and moist and flaky on the inside.
Drain for a few seconds in a fry basket, then place on paper towels to
help soak up the excess oil.
If you're frying more, place the cooked fish in a warm oven
at around 175°. Allow for the cooking oil to heat back up
before
adding another
batch.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.
Enjoy!