If you’re a devoted fan of fish sandwiches, you’re in for a treat. For more delightful seafood inspiration, you’ll also want to explore these Savory Salmon Burgers with Ginger Wasabi Mayo!

Revisiting a Classic: The Ultimate Crispy Fish Sandwich

Some recipes, after a hiatus, remind you why they were instant favorites. This Crispy Fish Sandwich is exactly that for me. After years of craving, I recently rediscovered this gem, and the only thought was: “Why did I wait so long to make this again?” It’s more than just a meal; it’s a quick escape to a world of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.

Imagine a sandwich that marries the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried fish with a creamy, zesty sauce that boasts an intriguing Asian kick. That’s precisely what this recipe delivers. It’s incredibly delicious, yet surprisingly simple and swift to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend lunch. The secret weapon? An easy homemade tartar sauce, elevated with the distinctive warmth of wasabi and the savory depth of soy sauce. Trust me, this tartar sauce alone is a compelling reason to whip up these sandwiches!

Beyond the sauce, you’ll savor a generous piece of firm white fish, meticulously coated in a light, airy panko crust and pan-fried to golden perfection. Pile it high with fresh, crisp veggies, and you’ll quickly realize this isn’t just another fish sandwich – it’s your new go-to favorite, a culinary experience you’ll want to repeat time and again.

Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Fish Sandwich

Crafting the perfect crispy fish sandwich requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need, along with tips for sourcing and potential substitutions:

For the Wasabi Tartar Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for our sauce. Use your favorite brand for the best results.
• Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds a delightful tang and subtle sweetness. If you prefer a more savory profile, dill relish can be a good alternative.
• Soy Sauce: The cornerstone of our Asian twist, contributing umami and depth. Opt for a low-sodium variety if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the sauce and balances the richness of the mayonnaise. Lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
• Wasabi Paste: This is where the unique Asian-style heat comes from. You can typically find wasabi paste in the international aisle of most grocery stores or easily order it online. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spice – a little goes a long way!
• Salt: To taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly harmonized.

For the Crispy Fish:

• Firm White Fish: The foundation of your sandwich! I personally recommend cod for its flaky texture and mild flavor. Other excellent choices include tilapia, halibut, haddock, or pollock. Aim for pieces that are roughly 6 ounces each and about the size of your buns for even cooking and assembly.
• Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning that brings a robust, savory flavor profile to the fish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the fish before breading.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the initial dredging layer, helping the egg wash adhere evenly.
• Ground Ginger and Garlic Powder: These spices are incorporated into the flour mixture, infusing the crust with aromatic Asian notes that complement the wasabi tartar sauce beautifully.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binding agent, creating a sticky surface for the panko to cling to, ensuring a truly crispy crust.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: The secret to an exceptionally crispy texture! Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a superior crunch.
• Vegetable Oil: For shallow frying the fish. Any neutral oil with a high smoke point (like canola or grapeseed) will work well.

For Assembling the Sandwich:

• Firm Buns: A sturdy bun is crucial to hold up against the generous toppings and sauce. While brioche buns are delicious, they can sometimes get soggy quickly. Consider a potato bun, sesame seed bun, or a rustic artisan roll for better structural integrity.
• Fresh Lime Slices: For a final squeeze over the hot fish, adding a burst of fresh acidity.
• Toppings:
• Sliced Cucumbers: Offer a cool, refreshing crunch.
• Sliced Radishes: Provide a peppery bite and vibrant color.
• Shredded Cabbage: Adds another layer of crisp texture and mild flavor.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves enhance the Asian profile with their bright, herbaceous notes.

Gathering these ingredients sets the stage for a truly remarkable homemade crispy fish sandwich!

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Crispy Fish Sandwich Recipe

Follow these clear and concise steps to create your mouthwatering crispy fish sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Wasabi Tartar Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, soy sauce, lime juice, and wasabi paste. Whisk all the ingredients together until thoroughly blended and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the fish. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Season the Fish: Pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels – this helps the seasoning and breading adhere better. Sprinkle both sides of each fish piece generously with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station: You’ll need three shallow dishes for your breading station. Pie plates work wonderfully for this!
   • Dish 1 (Flour Mixture): In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, and garlic powder. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
   • Dish 2 (Egg Wash): In the second dish, lightly whisk the two eggs until well beaten. This will be your “glue.”
   • Dish 3 (Panko Breadcrumbs): Place the panko breadcrumbs in the third dish.

4. 
   

   Bread the Fish: Working with one piece of fish at a time, carefully dredge it first in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s lightly and evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, transfer the fish to the beaten eggs, coating both sides thoroughly. Finally, place the egg-dipped fish into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently with your hands to ensure the panko adheres well to all surfaces. This creates that wonderfully crispy crust. Repeat for all fish fillets.

5. Shallow Fry the Fish: Heat approximately 1/4-inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet (cast iron works great for even heat) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot (you can test by dropping a tiny pinch of panko – it should sizzle immediately), carefully place the breaded fish fillets into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is cooked through and flaky.

6. 
   

   Drain and Finish the Fish: As each piece of fish finishes cooking, transfer it to a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain off and helps maintain crispiness. Immediately squeeze a fresh lime slice over each hot piece of fish for a burst of bright, zesty flavor.

7. 
   

   Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice your buns in half. Generously spread the prepared Wasabi Tartar Sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun. Place a crispy fish fillet on the bottom bun. Then, layer with your fresh toppings: sliced cucumbers, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Crown with the top half of the bun and serve immediately for the best experience.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Crispy Fish Sandwich

Achieving a truly exceptional crispy fish sandwich is easy with a few insider tips:

• Serve Immediately: These sandwiches are at their absolute best when eaten fresh off the skillet. The crispy fish and fresh toppings are a delight, but the buns can get soggy if left to sit for too long, especially with the creamy tartar sauce. Plan to assemble and serve right away.
• Customize the Wasabi Heat: The beauty of homemade wasabi tartar sauce is its adjustability. If you’re a spice enthusiast, don’t hesitate to add a little extra wasabi paste to crank up the heat. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more.
• Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: This recipe yields a generous amount of Wasabi Tartar Sauce, and for good reason! The sauce is a star player, adding immense flavor and moisture to every bite. While you can certainly scale back if you prefer, I highly recommend using the full amount for the most impactful experience. You might even find yourself wanting to put it on everything!
• Choose the Right Fish: Select firm, white fish fillets (like cod, halibut, or pollock) that are relatively uniform in thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents the fish from falling apart during frying.
• Proper Breading Technique: Ensure each piece of fish is fully coated at each stage (flour, egg, panko). The flour helps the egg adhere, and the egg creates the perfect surface for the panko to stick, resulting in a consistent, crispy crust. Gently pressing the panko onto the fish helps it adhere securely.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: The oil should be hot enough to fry but not smoking. Too cool, and the fish will absorb too much oil and become greasy; too hot, and the exterior will burn before the inside cooks through. Medium-high heat is usually ideal for pan-frying.
• Use a Wire Rack: After frying, placing the fish on a wire rack allows air to circulate around it, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy and helping maintain that delightful crispness.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative with variations:

• Spice It Up: Add a dash of sriracha to your tartar sauce for an extra kick, or finely sliced jalapeños to your toppings.
• Different Toppings: Experiment with avocado slices, pickled red onions, thinly sliced bell peppers, or even a different type of slaw.
• Alternative Buns: Try toasted sourdough, ciabatta rolls, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Cooking Method: For a healthier alternative, you can bake or air fry the panko-crusted fish instead of shallow frying. Adjust cooking times accordingly until the fish is golden and cooked through.

Serve these amazing fish sandwiches with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing Asian-inspired coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare the Wasabi Tartar Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Wasabi Tartar Sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often deepen and meld even better after a day or two.

What if I don’t have wasabi paste?

While wasabi paste provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with a small amount of horseradish for a similar pungency, or omit it entirely for a more traditional tartar sauce with a soy sauce twist. You could also try a touch of ginger paste for an alternative Asian flair.

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, you can use good quality frozen fish fillets. Just ensure they are completely thawed and thoroughly patted dry before seasoning and breading. Excess moisture can prevent the breading from sticking and result in less crispy fish.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

The best way to prevent sogginess is to assemble and serve the sandwiches immediately after cooking the fish. If preparing components ahead, keep the fish, sauce, and toppings separate and combine just before eating. You can also lightly toast the buns to create a barrier against moisture.

More Favorite Fish Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed this crispy fish sandwich, be sure to check out these other fantastic fish recipes:

• Panko Crusted Salmon with Homemade Tartar Sauce
• Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
• Homemade Crispy Fish Sticks
• Flavorful Tuscan Salmon

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Crispy Fish Sandwich with Wasabi Tartar Sauce Recipe Card

Crispy Fish Sandwich Recipe with Wasabi Tartar Sauce

A homemade fish sandwich has never been easier – or tastier! This Crispy Fish Sandwich Recipe with Wasabi Tartar Sauce gets an Asian-style makeover, packed with flavor. Plus, it’s on the table in 30 minutes!

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Asian

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Ingredients

Wasabi Tartar Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon wasabi paste
• Salt to taste

Fish Sandwiches

• 4 (6 oz) each pieces of firm white fish (such as halibut, tilapia, or cod)
• 1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fresh lime slices
• 4 firm buns
• Sliced cucumbers, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, and cilantro

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, relish, soy sauce, lime juice, and wasabi paste. Taste and season as needed with salt. Refrigerate until needed.
2. Sprinkle both sides of the fish with the old bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, ginger, and garlic powder.
4. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs until combined.
5. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
6. Working with one piece of fish at a time, lightly coat the fish in the flour mixture. Then dip in the eggs to coat, followed by the panko. Use your hands to lightly press the panko into the fish, if needed.
7. Heat about 1/4-inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the fish to a cooling rack over a baking sheet and squeeze a slice of lime over each piece of fish.
8. To assemble, spread the wasabi tartar sauce on the inside of the top and bottom of each bun. Place the fish on the bottom, then top with sliced cucumbers, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, and cilantro. Place the top half of the bun on and serve.

Recipe Notes:

• Adapted from Every Day with Rachael Ray June 2013.
• I like to use pieces of fish that are about the same size as my buns for even presentation and easier eating.
• Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. The nutritional value for the frying oil is based on a retention of 1/4 cup of vegetable oil. Cooking time and temperature can cause this number to change.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 sandwich, Calories: 949kcal (47%), Carbohydrates: 52g (17%), Protein: 43g (86%), Fat: 61g (94%), Saturated Fat: 9g (56%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 31g, Monounsaturated Fat: 17g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 206mg (69%), Sodium: 1886mg (82%), Potassium: 848mg (24%), Fiber: 2g (8%), Sugar: 5g (6%)

Keywords: crispy fish, fish sandwich recipe, Asian fish sandwich, wasabi tartar sauce