Deep Frying Fish

A Very Popular Method



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 fish and chips, fried

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

deep frying fish in large pot using a thermometerOther 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!

Related Articles:

Cooking Fish Techniques
Braising Fish
Baking Fish
Baking Fish Methods
Broiling Fish
Grilling Fish
Pan Frying Fish
Poaching Fish
Steaming Fish
Microwaving Fish
Smoking Fish






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