Description
Crispy and flavorful fish nuggets made from white fish fillets, coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. This easy recipe delivers tender, moist fish bites with a crunchy exterior, perfect for a family-friendly appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Fish and Soaking Liquid
- 1 ½ pounds white fish filets (grouper or cod recommended)
- 12 ounces cold water
Coating Mixture
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or parsley)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Frying
- 1 quart frying oil (peanut, canola, or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish Nuggets: Cut the fish fillets into small 1 to 1 ½ inch pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Pour cold water over the fish and gently stir. Let the fish soak while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Heat the Oil: Set a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and pour about 1 inch of oil into it. Place a cooking thermometer in the oil and heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Bread the Fish: Working in batches, lift 6 to 10 fish pieces out of the water, shaking your hand over the bowl to remove excess liquid. Toss the fish pieces well in the flour mixture, coating all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry the Nuggets: Carefully place the coated fish pieces into the hot oil. Stir immediately to prevent sticking. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the nuggets turn lightly golden brown, maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F by adjusting the heat as necessary.
- Drain and Season: Prepare a holding plate lined with paper towels. Use a skimmer to transfer the fried fish nuggets from the oil to the plate. Immediately sprinkle lightly with additional salt. Repeat the frying process with remaining batches.
- Serve: Once all fish nuggets are cooked, serve immediately while warm for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using cold water to soak the fish helps to keep the nuggets moist and tender during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for consistent heat retention.
- You can substitute dill with parsley or other herbs to vary the flavor.
- Ensure to not overcrowd the pan when frying to keep the oil temperature steady.