If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful twist on a classic burger, look no further than The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe. This delightful creation combines tender, flaky white fish enveloped in a light and crispy beer batter, all nestled between soft, buttery brioche buns with creamy tartar sauce and crunchy coleslaw. Every bite bursts with texture and taste that feels both comforting and exciting, making it a perfect meal for any day when you want to impress without fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for fish burgers, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend treat.

The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy, golden batter to the fresh, tangy toppings that balance the richness of the fried fish perfectly.

1 cup all purpose flour: The base for a light, crunchy batter that coats the fish beautifully.
2 tsp baking powder: Adds a lift to the batter, ensuring a crisp, airy texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors just right.
2 eggs: Helps bind the batter and adds richness.
⅔ cup sparkling water or beer: The key to a bubbly, delicate batter that fries up crispy.
2 Tbsp fresh dill chopped: Infuses a subtle herbaceous note into the batter.
1 pound of white fish cut into four filets: Choose fresh or fully thawed fish for the best texture.
½ tsp salt (for fish): Essential for seasoning the fish prior to frying.
3 litres vegetable oil: Ideal for deep frying the fish to golden perfection.
1 cup coleslaw: Adds crunch and a fresh, slightly tangy contrast.
¼ cup tartar sauce: Creamy and tangy, the perfect complement for fried fish.
4 brioche buns: Soft yet sturdy enough to cradle the crispy fish and toppings.

How to Make The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start by cutting your white fish into four equal filets. Pat each piece dry thoroughly with paper towels—this step is crucial to ensure the batter sticks well and fries up crisp. Sprinkle both sides with salt for immediate seasoning, setting the foundation for flavor that will shine through after frying.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour your vegetable oil into a deep fryer or a deep, heavy-bottomed pan and heat it to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining the right temperature is essential for achieving a golden crust without absorbing extra oil—hotter oil means crispier fish!

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, sparkling water or beer, and fresh dill. Aim for a silky, smooth consistency that clings nicely to your fish but isn’t too thick—chilling the batter slightly before frying can help it crisp even better.

Step 4: Fry the Fish

Dip each fish fillet gently into the batter, letting the excess drip off before carefully lowering it into the hot oil. Cook the fillets for about 2 minutes on each side, rolling them halfway through to ensure an even golden-brown crust. It might take 5 minutes per piece, depending on your fryer size, so work in batches if needed.

Step 5: Drain and Layer

Remove the cooked fish and place it on a paper towel-lined tray to soak up any excess oil. This step keeps your burger crisp and avoiding greasiness. Once all fish fillets are ready, you’re set to assemble the burgers.

Step 6: Build the Burger

Slice your brioche buns, toast them if you like, then layer the bottom with a generous spoonful of crunchy coleslaw. Place the beautifully fried fish on top, spoon over creamy tartar sauce, and crown with the bun’s top half. The combination of textures and flavors is nothing short of spectacular.

How to Serve The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to add more fresh elements such as crisp lettuce leaves, thinly sliced tomatoes, or pickles. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of lemon juice can brighten the whole burger. These little touches make each bite lively and refreshing against the rich fried fish.

Side Dishes

This burger pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries, ripple chips, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter contrast. You can also serve it alongside grilled corn on the cob or a tangy cucumber salad to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, swap brioche buns with lettuce wraps for a low-carb version or serve the fish fillets on flatbreads with a drizzle of herb mayo. Mini sliders using small buns and bite-sized fish pieces make for fantastic party appetizers that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover fish burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the buns separate if possible to prevent sogginess. The fish maintains its delicious flavor and texture well when properly stored.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, battered fish fillets by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best to freeze the fish alone and assemble the burger fresh after thawing for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftover fish fillets in an air fryer or oven to restore their crispiness—avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the batter soggy. Toast your buns fresh or warm them lightly to complete the experience perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use any type of white fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! Popular choices include cod, haddock, or pollock. Just make sure the fish is fresh or fully thawed and patted dry to keep the batter crispy.

What if I don’t have beer or sparkling water?

You can substitute with club soda or plain water, but beer or sparkling water helps create a lighter, crunchier batter due to carbonation.

Is it necessary to deep fry the fish?

For the crispest, most authentic texture, deep frying is recommended. However, you can pan-fry with enough oil or try an air fryer for a lighter option, keeping in mind the results will differ slightly.

How do I make homemade tartar sauce?

Mix mayonnaise with minced dill pickles or relish, a squeeze of lemon juice, and some fresh dill. It’s a quick, easy way to add extra freshness and tang to your burger.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Yes, you can make the batter a bit ahead of time and chill it. Chilled batter helps achieve an even crispier crust when fried.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have everything you need to create The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe, I encourage you to dive in and make this delicious, crunchy burger your new favorite. The perfect combination of crispy batter, tender fish, and fresh accompaniments makes for an irresistibly satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!

The Best Fried Fish Burger Recipe