Crispy Coastal Fried Cod

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs cod fillets
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup fine yellow cornmeal
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 2 eggs beaten
• 2 tbsp whole milk
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels on both sides.

2. 2

   Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let rest 5 minutes.

3. 3

   In a shallow bowl mix flour, cornmeal, and Old Bay. In a second bowl whisk eggs and milk together.

4. 4

   Dip each fillet in the egg wash letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the flour-cornmeal mixture coating both sides evenly.

5. 5

   Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until a pinch of flour sizzles immediately on contact.

6. 6

   Carefully place fillets in the pan with space between each one. Do not crowd the pan.

7. 7

   Cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until deep golden brown and fish flakes easily when pressed with a fork. Flip only once.

8. 8

   Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain for one minute. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.