The Perfect Combination of Crispy, Savory, and Creamy

The secret to this sandwich’s irresistible flavor lies in the combination of the crispy cod fillet, the creamy cheddar cheese, and the tangy tartar sauce. The fish is seasoned with a blend of spices and coated in a two-step dredging process that creates a crunchy golden crust while keeping the fish moist and tender on the inside. The addition of the cheddar cheese melts perfectly over the hot fish, adding a rich, creamy layer that enhances the flavor.

The homemade tartar sauce, made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, pickles, and capers, is a refreshing and tangy complement to the fried fish. The slight acidity from the lemon juice and the saltiness of the capers and pickles cut through the richness of the fish and cheese, creating a balanced and flavorful bite.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Icelandic Cod Fillets: Cod is a mild-flavored, flaky white fish that cooks up perfectly crispy when fried. You can also substitute cod with haddock or halibut, which are similar in texture and flavor. Cod is a great source of lean protein, making it a satisfying choice for this sandwich.

• Buns: The sandwich is served on hamburger buns, which are soft and slightly sweet, making the perfect base for the crispy fish and creamy tartar sauce. Steaming the buns for a few seconds ensures they stay soft and warm, providing a nice contrast to the crunchiness of the fried fish.

• Cheddar Cheese: A slice of melted cheddar cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that beautifully complements the fried fish. You can also use American cheese for a milder flavor or opt for a sharp cheddar if you prefer a bolder taste.

• Tartar Sauce: This homemade tartar sauce features a tangy blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickles, capers, and lemon juice. The sauce is zesty, creamy, and slightly tart, making it the perfect accompaniment to the crispy fish. The pickles and capers provide crunch and an added layer of flavor, while the Dijon mustard gives the sauce a touch of sharpness.

• Spices: The fish is seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, paprika, turmeric, and white pepper, which enhance the flavor of the fish and give it a slightly smoky and earthy undertone. The smoked paprika in particular adds depth to the overall flavor.

• Peanut Oil: For frying, peanut oil is ideal due to its high smoking point and neutral flavor. It helps create a crisp, golden crust on the fish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the cod.

How to Make the Fried Cod Fish Sandwich

This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep time. Here’s how to make the perfect fried cod fish sandwich:

1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce

• In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, diced pickles, capers, and chopped parsley.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Prepare the Fish

• Cut the cod fillets into portions that match the size of your buns (about 4–6 oz each). Season the fillets with salt and pepper.

• Place the fish on a wire rack to allow them to rest while you prepare the dredging mixture.

3. Dredge the Fish

• In a shallow bowl, combine flour and Old Bay seasoning to make the dry dredge.

• In another bowl, combine the remaining flour, paprika, turmeric, white pepper, baking powder, and salt for the wet dredge. Whisk in egg and sparkling water until smooth.

• Dredge the fish fillets first in the dry mixture, pressing the edges to coat well. Then dip them into the wet dredge, ensuring that they are fully coated.

4. Fry the Fish

• Heat peanut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 375°F (190°C), carefully lower the fish fillets into the oil.

• Fry the fish for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the fish to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

5. Steam the Buns

• Steam the hamburger buns for about 10 seconds to soften them. This ensures they remain warm and easy to bite into.

6. Assemble the Sandwich

• Spread a generous amount of the homemade tartar sauce on the bottom bun.

• Place a fried cod fillet on top, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese.

• Add more tartar sauce if desired, then cover with the top bun.

7. Serve

• Press the sandwich gently to combine the ingredients, then serve immediately while the fish is still crispy and hot.

Nutritional Information

Each Fried Cod Fish Sandwich contains approximately:

• Calories: 747 kcal. This sandwich is hearty and filling, making it a satisfying meal.

• Protein: 45 grams. The cod fillet provides a substantial amount of protein to fuel your day.

• Fat: 29 grams, including 6 grams of saturated fat. The fats from the oil, cheese, and tartar sauce contribute to the richness of the dish.

• Carbohydrates: 73 grams. The sandwich provides a good amount of carbohydrates from the bun and tartar sauce.

• Fiber: 4 grams. The fiber content helps with digestion and adds to the feeling of fullness.

• Sugars: 4 grams. The sugars come from the pickles in the tartar sauce and the honey mustard glaze.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: This sandwich pairs well with crispy sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for added freshness and texture.

• Beverage Pairing: Serve with an ice-cold beer, a lemonade, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Conclusion

The Fried Cod Fish Sandwich with honey mustard glaze is a delicious twist on a classic fast-food favorite. Crispy fried fish fillets, topped with tangy tartar sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and served on a warm, soft bun, create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With a balance of sweetness, smokiness, and creaminess, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves seafood. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, it’s an easy, tasty, and crowd-pleasing option.