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### **How to Make Crispy Fish Batter**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
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#### **Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients**
1. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water or beer until the batter reaches a smooth, slightly thick consistency.
2. If you prefer a richer batter, whisk in the lightly beaten egg.
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#### **Step 3: Heat the Oil**
1. In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature for frying.
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#### **Step 4: Coat the Fish**
1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the batter adhere better.
2. Dip each piece of fish into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
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#### **Step 5: Fry the Fish**
1. Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil, one piece at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan.
2. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the batter is golden-brown and crispy and the fish is cooked through.
3. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fish to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Crispy Batter**
1. **Cold Ingredients:** Always use cold sparkling water or beer to create a light, airy batter.
2. **Don’t Overmix:** Mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can make it heavy.
3. **Maintain Oil Temperature:** Keep the oil at 350°F to ensure even cooking and prevent the batter from becoming greasy.
4. **Dry the Fish:** Removing moisture from the fish ensures the batter sticks and fries evenly.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Crispy batter is best enjoyed fresh, so serve the fish as soon as it’s cooked.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Classic Fish and Chips:** Pair your crispy fish with fries, tartar sauce, and a wedge of lemon for a traditional treat.
– **Fish Tacos:** Use smaller pieces of battered fish as the star ingredient in tacos, topped with slaw and a zesty sauce.
– **Seafood Platter:** Add fried shrimp, calamari, and hush puppies for a seafood feast.
– **Light Side Salads:** Balance the richness of the fried fish with a fresh green salad or coleslaw.
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### **Why Sparkling Water or Beer?**
The carbonation in sparkling water or beer helps create tiny air bubbles in the batter, resulting in a light, crispy texture when fried. Beer also adds a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with fish.
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### **Conclusion**
With this **Crispy Fish Batter Recipe**, you can achieve restaurant-quality fried fish that’s perfectly golden, light, and irresistibly crunchy. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will impress every time.
So grab your ingredients, heat up your oil, and get ready to enjoy some of the best homemade fried fish you’ve ever tasted. Happy frying!
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