If you’re a fan of crispy, golden-battered fish, then you’re in for a treat! This Crispy Captain Ds Batter-Dipped Fish (Copycat Recipe) brings the beloved fast-food flavor right into your kitchen. Picture this: tender, flaky fish coated in a perfectly seasoned batter, fried to crispy perfection in vegetable oil. Pair it with a side of tartar sauce and some fries, and you’ve got yourself a meal that rivals your favorite seafood joint. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Top Reasons to Make Crispy Captain Ds Batter-Dipped Fish (Copycat Recipe)

Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of spices and the crispy texture makes this fish utterly delicious.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Budget-Friendly: Using affordable white fish such as cod or hake makes this dish economical without sacrificing quality.

What You’ll Gather

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups water
2 pounds cod, hake, or another white fish
Vegetable oil for frying

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Mixing Bowls: For combining the batter ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the batter thoroughly and ensure there are no lumps.
Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: For frying the fish to crispy perfection.
Tongs: For safely flipping and removing the fish from hot oil.
Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
Thermometer (optional): To check the oil temperature for optimal frying.

Cook Crispy Captain Ds Batter-Dipped Fish (Copycat Recipe) Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start by preparing your fish. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure the fish is cut into portion-sized pieces for even frying.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well-mixed. Gradually add in the water, whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the fish pieces (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Coat the Fish

Dip each piece of fish into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully placing the fish into the hot oil.

Step 5: Fry the Fish

Fry the fish in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the fish halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the fish from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

Better-for-You Options

Baking: Instead of frying, consider baking the battered fish in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Air Fryer: Use an air fryer for a healthier alternative, using less oil while still achieving a crispy texture.
Seasoning Variations: Try adding herbs like dill or parsley to the batter for extra flavor without added calories.

Errors to Dodge

Incorrect Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying; too hot can burn the batter, while too cool will make it soggy.
Overcrowding the Pan: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Not Draining Properly: Use paper towels to absorb excess oil for a less greasy finish.
Skipping the Drying Step: Always pat the fish dry before battering to help the batter adhere better.

Storage Pro Tips

To store leftover Crispy Captain Ds Batter-Dipped Fish, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to regain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will likely make the batter soggy.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked fish for longer storage. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen fish, bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

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The Takeaway

This Crispy Captain Ds Batter-Dipped Fish (Copycat Recipe) is a delightful way to bring the flavors of your favorite seafood restaurant right to your home kitchen. With its crunchy exterior and tender fish, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Easy to whip up and customize, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade fish fry that’s bound to impress!