Home > Blog > How to Cook and Store Battered Fish – Easy Guide

How to Cook and Store Battered Fish - Easy Guide

Author: Melissa Collins

Updated: January 10, 2023

Are you tired of soggy, bland battered fish that falls apart as soon as you try to flip it in the pan?

Impress your friends and family with perfectly crispy and flavorful battered fish that stays together and tastes amazing.

Here’s how you can cook and store battered fish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, these tips and tricks will help you make restaurant-quality fish every time.

So let’s get started!

The best way to cook fresh battered fish

To cook fresh battered fish, you will need the following ingredients:

Fresh fish fillets

Flour
Baking powder
Salt

Cold water
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Here is a simple recipe to follow:

Add flour, baking powder, and salt to a mixing bowl.

Slowly add the cold water to the dry mixture, stirring until a smooth and thick batter forms.
Heat a large pan or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F.
Dip the fish fillets into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.

Place your fish into the hot oil and cook for three minutes on each side or until the fish is light golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the fish from the oil. Place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the fish fillets’ thickness. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature and to check the internal temperature to ensure it is cooked to at least 145°F.

The best way to cook frozen battered fish

Cooking frozen battered fish is similar to cooking freshly battered fish, but there are a few extra steps you will need to take to ensure the best results. Here is what you will need:

Frozen fish
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Here is a simple recipe to follow:

Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Place the frozen fish on a baking sheet or silicone mat.
Bake the fish for 10-12 minutes, until it is cooked through and the batter is crispy and golden brown.

Alternatively, you can also fry the frozen fish in a pan or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil.
Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F.
Carefully place the frozen fish into the hot oil and cook for four minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and the batter is crispy and golden brown.

Remove the fish from the oven or oil and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Enjoy!

How to cook battered fish on the stove

Cooking battered fish on the stove is a quick and easy way to get perfectly crispy and flavorful fish without using a deep fryer.

Here is a simple recipe to follow:

Add flour, baking powder, and salt to a mixing bowl.
Slowly add the cold water to the dry mixture, stirring until a smooth and thick batter forms.

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of vegetable oil.
Dip the fish fillets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Place your fish into the hot oil and cook for three minutes on each side, or until the fish is light golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

Remove the fish from the oil. Place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Enjoy!

You may need to adjust the stove’s heat to ensure the batter cooks evenly and does not burn.

How to cook battered fish in an air fryer?

Cooking fish in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep frying. It uses less oil and still achieves crispy and flavorful results.

Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Slowly add the cold water to the dry mixture, stirring until a smooth and thick batter forms.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

Dip the fish fillets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Lightly spray the fish with olive oil spray on both sides.
Place the fish into the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is crispy and golden brown.

Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Enjoy!

You may need to shake the basket or turn the fish over halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

How to cook battered fish in the oven?

Cooking battered fish in the oven is a simple and convenient way to achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful fish without the mess of frying.

Here is a simple recipe to follow:

Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to a mixing bowl.
Slowly add the cold water to the dry mixture, stirring until a smooth and thick batter forms.

Dip the fish fillets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Place the fish on a baking sheet or a silicone baking mat.
Lightly spray the fish with olive oil spray on both sides.

Bake the fish for 10-12 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the batter is crispy and golden brown.
Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides.

The cooking time depends on the thickness or size of the fillets. Make sure the fish is cooked to at least 145°F. Check with a thermometer.

How microwave battered fish?

If you are in a hurry or don’t have an oven or stove, you can microwave battered fish. However, this method is not recommended!

Place the fish on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave the fish for 1-2 minutes or until it is cooked and the batter is crispy.

Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides.

Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the batter cooks evenly and does not burn.

How to cook battered fish in a pan?

Cooking battered fish in a pan is a quick and easy way to achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful fish without the mess of deep frying.

Here is a simple recipe to follow:

Add the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Slowly add the cold water to the dry mixture, stirring until a smooth and thick batter forms.
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of vegetable oil.

Dip the fish fillets into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Place the fish into the hot pan and cook for three to four minutes on each side until the fish is crispy golden brown.
Now, remove the fish from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Serve the fish immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Enjoy!

How long does battered fish take to cook?

The cooking time for battered fish will depend on the cooking method you are using and the size and thickness of the fish fillets. Here is a general guide to follow:

In a deep fryer: 3-4 minutes per side

In a pan or on the stove: 2-3 minutes per side
In the oven: 10-12 minutes
In an air fryer: 8-10 minutes
In the microwave: 1-2 minutes

The fish should be golden brown and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. If the batter is not yet crispy and golden brown, you may need to cook the fish for a few minutes longer.

Best side dishes for battered fish

Many delicious side dishes pair well with battered fish.

Chips or fries: These classic sides are always a hit with battered fish.

You can serve them with traditional potato chips, french fries, or even sweet potato fries for a healthier twist.
Coleslaw: This refreshing side is a great way to balance out the richness of the fish.
You can make your own coleslaw by shredding cabbage and carrots and tossing them with a creamy dressing, or you can buy it pre-made at the store.

Salad: A simple green salad is a great option if you want something lighter and healthier.
Mashed potatoes:
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and classic side that pairs well with fish. You can make your own by boiling potatoes until they are tender, mashing them with butter and milk, and seasoning them with salt and pepper.

Rice: Rice is a versatile side that goes well with fish. You can choose from white rice, brown rice, or even flavored rice such as jasmine or basmati.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a healthy and delicious option that adds color and flavor to your meal. You can roast a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, in the oven with a little bit of oil and your choice of herbs and spices.

Best condiments for battered fish

Many tasty condiments pair well with battered fish.

Tartar sauce: This creamy and tangy condiment is a classic choice for fish. You can make your own by mixing mayonnaise, diced pickles, diced onions, and lemon juice together, or you can buy it pre-made at the store.
Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and refreshing flavor to fish.
You can serve lemon wedges on the side for people to add as much or as little as they like.

Ketchup: Ketchup is a popular condiment for many fried foods, including fish. You can serve it on the side for dipping or mix it with mayonnaise to create a “fry sauce.”
Malt vinegar: This tangy and slightly sweet condiment is a traditional choice for fish.
Mayonnaise:

Mayonnaise is another creamy and versatile condiment that pairs well with fish. You can serve it on the side for dipping or mix it with your choice of herbs and spices to create a flavored mayonnaise.
Remoulade sauce: This spicy and tangy condiment is popular for fish in France. You can make your own by mixing mayonnaise, diced pickles, diced onions, mustard, and hot sauce together, or you can buy it pre-made at the store.

How to store battered fish?

If you have leftover battered fish or want to store battered fish that you have cooked in advance, it is important to follow proper storage guidelines to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips to follow:

Allow the fish to cool completely: Before storing battered fish, it is important to let it cool to room temperature. This will prevent the fish from becoming soggy and will also help prevent the growth of bacteria.
Place the fish in an airtight container: Once it has cooled, place it in an airtight container such as a plastic container or a resealable plastic bag.
This will help keep the fish fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Store the fish in the refrigerator: If you plan to eat the fish within a few days, you can store it in the refrigerator.
First, place the fish container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually the back of the bottom shelf.
Freeze the fish for longer storage: If you want to store the fish for longer, you can freeze it. Place the fish container in the coldest part of the freezer, and label and date it. Frozen fish will last for several months, but eating it within the first few weeks is best for the best quality.

How long does battered fish stay good for?

The shelf life of battered fish will depend on how it is stored and whether it is cooked fresh or frozen. Here is a general guide to follow:

Fresh: If you cook freshly battered fish and store it properly, it will stay in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Frozen: If you cook fish from frozen and store it properly, it will stay good for several months in the freezer.

If the fish does not smell fresh or if it has any signs of spoilage, such as mold or discoloration, it should be discarded.

Can you freeze battered fish?

Yes, you can freeze battered fish to extend its shelf life and have it on hand for a quick and easy meal. Here are some tips to follow when freezing battered fish:

Let the fish cool to room temperature before freezing to avoid soggy fish and bacterial growth. Then, cool the fish and store it in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Frozen fish can last for several months, but the best quality comes from eating it within the first few weeks after it is frozen.

FAQs

What kind of fish can be used for battered fish?

Any firm white fish can be used for battered fish, such as cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia.

Can I use gluten-free flour for battered fish?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for fish if you follow a gluten-free diet. Just be sure to use a gluten-free baking powder as well to ensure the batter is gluten-free.

Can I make battered fish without baking powder?

Yes, you can make battered fish without baking powder, but the batter may not be as light and crispy. Instead, you can combine flour, salt, and cold water to make a basic battered fish or add lemon juice or vinegar to the batter to help it rise.

Can I use buttermilk in the batter for battered fish?

Yes, you can use buttermilk in the batter for battered fish to add flavor and tenderness to the fish. Just be sure to use cold buttermilk to help keep the batter cold and to prevent the fish from becoming soggy.