Crispy Fried Cod Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cod

01 - 4 cod fillets (4-6 ounces each)
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1 cup cold club soda (or sparkling water)
11 - 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

→ For the Sandwich

12 - 4 sandwich buns (brioche buns or Kaiser rolls)
13 - 1/4 cup tartar sauce (homemade or store-bought)
14 - 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
15 - 4 slices of tomato
16 - 4 slices of pickles (optional)
17 - Lemon wedges, for serving

→ For Homemade Tartar Sauce (Optional)

18 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
19 - 1 tablespoon pickle relish
20 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
21 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
22 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
23 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - If making homemade sauce, mix mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
02 - Whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold club soda until you have a pancake-like batter consistency.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. If you don't have a thermometer, a drop of batter should sizzle immediately.
04 - Pat cod fillets dry, dip in batter until fully coated, then carefully place in hot oil. Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy (internal temp 145°F). Drain on paper towels.
05 - While the fish cooks, lightly toast your sandwich buns for better flavor and texture.
06 - Spread tartar sauce on bottom bun, add lettuce, tomato slice, and any optional toppings. Place the crispy cod on top and finish with the top bun.
07 - Enjoy immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.

# Notes:

01 - Cold club soda creates a lighter, crispier batter
02 - Fry fish in batches to maintain oil temperature
03 - For a baked version, coat fish and bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes