This platter is a celebration of texture and taste. The cod fillets are coated in a triple-layered crust of flour, cornmeal, and panko breadcrumbs, delivering a shatteringly crisp bite that gives way to tender, flaky fish. Paired with golden onion rings soaked in buttermilk and fried to perfection, this dish is a tribute to classic fish-and-chips with a gourmet twist. Serve it with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a zesty remoulade, and you’ve got a showstopper that disappears fast.
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Crispy Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Golden Onion Rings:
- 2 large onions, sliced into ½-inch rings
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
🔥 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
- In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each cod fillet in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat with panko. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick well.
- Place coated fillets on a tray and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help the crust set.
Step 2: Prep the Onion Rings
- Separate onion slices into rings and soak them in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove onion rings from buttermilk, dredge in the seasoned flour, and shake off excess.
- Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
Step 3: Fry the Cod
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a clean pan or fryer.
- Fry cod fillets in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt while hot.
🍋 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve cod and onion rings on a large platter with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Add a side of coleslaw or crispy fries for a full fish-and-chips experience.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color.
💡 Tips & Twists:
- Swap cod for haddock or tilapia if preferred.
- Add grated Parmesan to the panko for extra flavor.
- Make it tropical with a mango-lime dipping sauce or pineapple slaw.
This platter is pure joy on a plate, My—crispy, golden, and guaranteed to make your guests swoon. Want to brainstorm a sugar-free dessert to follow this up? Or maybe a tropical drink pairing? Let’s keep the flavor party going!