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Crispy Long John Silver batter recipe for fish and chicken

Long John Silver's Fish Batter

This recipe yields a shatteringly crisp and bubbly batter perfect for frying fish, creating that iconic Long John Silver’s taste at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Batter Ingredients
  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Fresh is best for a good rise
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to finish
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Helps with browning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
  • 1 cup ice cold club soda or seltzer Plus extra as needed
  • a pinch MSG Optional for extra savoriness
  • 1/4 cup flour mixed with cornstarch and salt Optional for dusting fish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Mix all the dry ingredients for the batter in a bowl.
  2. Add the ice cold club soda and stir gently until just combined.
  3. Let the batter rest while you prepare the fish.
  4. Cut fish fillets into planks about 1 inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long, and pat dry with paper towels.
Frying
  1. Heat canola oil in a deep pot to 350-360°F.
  2. Dust fish with the seasoned flour, then dip into the batter, letting the excess drip off.
  3. Carefully lower the fish into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
  4. Transfer to a wire rack over a sheet pan and sprinkle with salt immediately.

Notes

For best results, chill the batter while the oil heats. Do not overcrowd the pot while frying to maintain oil temperature.