Crispy Cod & Golden Onion Rings Platter

 

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Cod:

4 cod fillets (6 oz each) – firm, mild, and flaky white fish

1 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging and sealing in moisture

1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for light, extra crunch

1/2 cup cornmeal – adds a rustic, golden crisp

2 large eggs – helps coating stick

1/2 cup milk or buttermilk – tenderizes and adds richness

1 tsp paprika – for mild smoky flavor

1/2 tsp garlic powder – enhances depth

1/2 tsp onion powder – savory note

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Golden Onion Rings:

2 large sweet onions – sliced into ½-inch rings

1 cup all-purpose flour – first layer for dredging

1 cup buttermilk (or milk) – makes them tender

1 egg – helps the coating stick

1 cup panko breadcrumbs – crunchy crust

1/2 cup cornmeal – adds crispiness

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving:

Lemon wedges

Tartar sauce or garlic aioli

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.

2. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Dredging Stations

Bowl 1: Flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper.

Bowl 2: Beaten eggs + milk/buttermilk.

Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs + cornmeal.

Step 3: Bread the Cod

1. Coat each cod fillet in the seasoned flour.

2. Dip into the egg mixture, shaking off excess.

3. Press into the breadcrumb–cornmeal mix until fully coated.

4. Place on a tray to rest while oil heats.

Step 4: Fry the Cod

1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry fillets in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 4–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).

3. Place on a paper towel–lined plate to drain.

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Step 5: Prepare Onion Rings

1. Separate onion slices into rings.

2. Dredge rings in flour.

3. Dip into egg + buttermilk mixture.

4. Coat with breadcrumb–cornmeal mix.

Step 6: Fry Onion Rings

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) again.

2. Fry onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.

3. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt.

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Step 7: Assemble & Serve

Arrange the crispy cod fillets and onion rings on a large platter.

Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley.

Serve hot with tartar sauce, ketchup, or garlic aioli for dipping.

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🔥 Pro Tips:

For extra crunch, double-dip the cod: flour → egg → breadcrumb mix → egg → breadcrumb mix ag

ain.

Keep cooked fish and onion rings warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven while frying the rest.

Use sweet onions (like Vidalia) for the best flavor in onion rings.