Why make this recipe
Crispy homemade fish sticks are a fun and easy meal that everyone will love. They are healthier than the store-bought versions, and you can control the ingredients. Plus, making them at home is a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a fresher taste. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of fries for a delightful meal the whole family can enjoy.
How to make Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks
Ingredients :
For the Fish:
- 2 lbs (approx. 900g) firm white fish fillets, skinless and boneless (such as cod, haddock, pollock, or halibut)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading Station:
Flour Mixture (Bowl 1):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Egg Wash (Bowl 2):
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water or milk
Panko Coating (Bowl 3):
- 3 cups Panko breadcrumbs (do not substitute with regular breadcrumbs for best results)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but recommended for flavor and browning)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- Olive oil spray or melted butter for drizzling/spraying
Directions :
- In the first dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- In the second dish, crack the eggs and add the water or milk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and pale yellow.
- In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together thoroughly.
- Take a fish stick and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Transfer the flour-coated fish stick to the egg wash. Submerge it completely, then lift it out, allowing any excess egg to drip back into the dish for a few seconds.
- Immediately place the egg-washed fish stick into the Panko mixture. Use your dry hand to scoop Panko over the top and press down gently but firmly.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. For extra crispiness, place a wire rack inside the baking sheet.
- Arrange the breaded fish sticks on the prepared wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure there is space between each stick.
- Lightly spray the tops of the fish sticks with olive oil spray or drizzle with a small amount of melted butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the fish sticks halfway through. They are done when they are golden brown and crispy.
- For an air fryer, preheat to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Cook in batches for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to serve Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks
Serve these crispy fish sticks with tartar sauce, ketchup, or a simple squeeze of lemon. Pair them with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
How to store Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks
To store leftover fish sticks, allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing them until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Tips to make Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks
- Choose a firm white fish for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the Panko breadcrumbs; they make the fish sticks extra crispy.
- Make sure to space out the fish sticks on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
Variation
You can add different spices to the flour mixture or Panko coating to suit your taste. For instance, try adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a herby flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading.
2. What can I use if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
For best results, use Panko breadcrumbs. However, if you don’t have them, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
3. Can I air fry the fish sticks?
Absolutely! Follow the air fryer instructions mentioned in the recipe for a quick and crispy alternative.