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### **Instructions**
**1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce:**
Start by making the tartar sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and capers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, then set aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together.
**2. Prepare the Fish Fillets:**
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the batter stick better and ensure a crispy texture.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually add the cold sparkling water (or beer) to the dry mixture, stirring to form a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the fish but not too runny.
**3. Fry the Fish:**
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the fish fillets for even frying.
Dip each fish fillet into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Carefully place the battered fish fillets into the hot oil, frying them for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once fried, remove the fish from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
**4. Toast the Buns:**
While the fish is frying, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a dry skillet or oven until golden brown. This step adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to the sandwich.
**5. Assemble the Sandwiches:**
Spread a generous amount of homemade tartar sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a slice of American cheese on top of the tartar sauce. Then, carefully add one crispy fish fillet to each bun.
Top with a little shredded lettuce for added crunch (if desired), then place the top half of the bun to complete the sandwich.
**6. Serve and Enjoy:**
Your Copycat Filet-O-Fish sandwiches are ready to be served! Pair them with fries, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauces for a complete meal.
### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Crispy & Flavorful:** The fish is battered to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that complements the tender, flaky fish inside.
– **Homemade Tartar Sauce:** Skip the store-bought sauce and make your own with simple ingredients for a fresher, tangier taste.
– **Customizable:** Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes. Add more spices, use a different type of cheese, or even try a gluten-free batter for a healthier twist.
– **Kid-Friendly:** This recipe is great for kids who love fish sandwiches! It’s simple, fun to make, and much healthier than the fast food version.
### **Health Benefits**
– **Protein-Rich:** Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle health and overall well-being.
– **Omega-3 Fatty Acids:** Many fish varieties, such as cod or tilapia, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.
– **Control the Ingredients:** By making this recipe at home, you can use healthier oil for frying and avoid preservatives commonly found in fast food.
### **Variations to Try**
– **Batter Alternatives:** For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour for the batter.
– **Cheese Options:** While American cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with cheddar, Swiss, or even a slice of tangy goat cheese for a unique twist.
– **Spicy Tartar Sauce:** Add a little sriracha or hot sauce to the tartar sauce for a spicy kick.
### **Conclusion**
This **Copycat Filet-O-Fish Recipe** brings all the flavors of the iconic fast food sandwich into your home with a homemade touch. Crispy fish fillets, creamy tartar sauce, and soft buns come together to create a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this recipe is simple, delicious, and so much better than takeout! Give it a try, and you might just find that your homemade version is even better than the original!
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