Golden Fried Goodness: Battered Cod & Onion Rings for Your Next Meal

Photo byAngie Bright

There's something irresistibly comforting about a perfectly fried, golden-battered cod fillet and a side of crispy onion rings. Whether you're craving the crunch of the coating or the tender flakiness of the fish, this classic combination delivers on all fronts. The mix of textures and flavors makes this a meal that can easily stand on its own or be elevated to sandwich form with a few added toppings.

The real magic of battered cod lies in the light, airy coating that provides the perfect crunch while sealing in the moisture of the fish. Paired with a warm toasted bun, tangy tartar sauce, and crisp lettuce and pickles, you get a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor. Of course, the star isn’t complete without its trusty sidekick—onion rings. These crunchy rings of sweet, fried onion are just what you need to round out this meal.

The Battered Cod & Onion Rings Recipe Now that your mouth is watering, let’s get into how you can make this delicious meal at home. It’s easier than you might think, and the ingredients are simple—perfect for a laid-back weekend dinner or a casual lunch gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

For the Battered Cod:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cold sparkling water or club soda
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 4 sandwich buns
• Tartar sauce, lettuce, and pickles for serving

For the Onion Rings:

• 2 large onions, sliced into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 cup cold sparkling water or club soda
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

For the Onion Rings:

1. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water or club soda until you have a smooth batter. The coldness of the liquid helps make the onion rings extra crispy.
2. Fry the Onion Rings: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Dip each onion ring into the batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place the rings in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate and season with a little extra salt while they’re still hot.

For the Battered Cod:

1. Make the Cod Batter: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal (if using), baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the cold sparkling water while whisking, until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
2. Fry the Cod: Heat more vegetable oil in the skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Dip the cod fillets in the batter, allowing the excess to drip off, and then carefully lower them into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a crispy, golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Assemble the Sandwich:

1. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a skillet or under the broiler until they’re just crisp.
2. Build the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom bun, then layer on some lettuce and pickles. Place the fried cod fillet on top, and cap it with the other half of the bun.

Serve:

Pair your crispy battered cod sandwich with a generous helping of onion rings on the side. For an extra kick, offer more tartar sauce as a dipping option for the onion rings.

This meal is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for anyone who loves the combination of light, crunchy batter and juicy fish. The onion rings bring the meal full circle with their sweet, fried goodness, making each bite a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. Whether you're serving this dish at a casual get-together or treating yourself to a hearty homemade meal, it's bound to be a hit.

Here are some reliable sources where you can find more detailed recipes and variations for battered cod and onion rings:

1. Simply Home Cooked provides a guide on making Beer Battered Cod, emphasizing the importance of keeping the batter cold and using beer for a light, crispy texture. They also offer tips on substitutions for gluten-free and alcohol-free versions​(Simply Home Cooked).
2. RecipeTin Eats offers a detailed method for making Crispy Beer Battered Fish, with practical tips on maintaining the batter's crispness using cold beer or soda water, and rice flour for added texture​(RecipeTin Eats).
3. Cooking with Mamma C provides insights into Deep Fried Beer Battered Cod using a simple flour-based batter with optional beer. This source also includes useful tips for reheating fried fish to retain its crunch​(Cooking with Mamma C).
4. Culinary Hill discusses a Beer-Battered Cod Recipe with step-by-step instructions, including seasoning with cumin and cayenne for added flavor. This source also highlights the importance of keeping oil at the right temperature to avoid soggy fish​(Culinary Hill).

These sources offer a variety of techniques to suit different preferences, such as using beer or club soda for the batter, gluten-free alternatives, and tips for keeping the fish crispy even after frying.