Battered Cod

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup cold sparkling water or beer
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk the dry ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.
2. Slowly add the cold sparkling water or beer to the dry ingredients while whisking. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The batter should have a thick but pourable consistency.
3. Place the cod fillets on a plate and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important to ensure that the batter adheres well to the fish.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to around 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the cod fillets.
5. Dip each cod fillet into the batter, coating it completely. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully placing the fillet into the hot oil. Fry two fillets at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Fry the cod fillets for about 4-6 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried fillets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Repeat the frying process with the remaining cod fillets, ensuring that the oil temperature remains consistent.
8. Serve the battered cod fillets hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce such as tartar sauce. Accompany them with sides like french fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy the crispy and delicious battered cod! This classic dish is perfect for a fish and chips meal or as a main course served with your favorite sides.