Crispy Cod & Golden Onion Rings Platter
Intro
This Crispy Cod & Golden Onion Rings Platter is a pub-style comfort meal that combines flaky, tender cod fillets coated in a golden, crunchy batter with perfectly crisp onion rings. The combination of the light, delicate fish and the sweet crunch of onions makes this platter irresistible. It’s a fantastic dish for weekends, family dinners, or even a homemade “fish & chips” night. Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and your favorite dipping sauces for a complete experience.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cod
4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each), skinless and boneless
1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dredging)
1 cup cold sparkling water (or club soda/beer for beer-battered style)
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)
For the Onion Rings
2 large onions, cut into ½-inch rings and separated
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp lemon juice)
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying
For Serving
Lemon wedges
Tartar sauce or garlic aioli
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Fish
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and pepper.
Dredge lightly in flour (helps the batter stick).
Make the Batter for Cod
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Slowly whisk in cold sparkling water (or beer) until smooth and slightly thick (like pancake batter).
Keep chilled until ready to fry.
Fry the Cod
Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Dip cod fillets into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Fry fillets for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.
Prep the Onion Rings
Soak onion rings in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes (helps soften and flavor).
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Remove onion rings from buttermilk, dredge in flour mixture, shake off excess.
Fry the Onion Rings
Heat oil again to 350°F (175°C).
Fry onion rings in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.
Drain on paper towels and season lightly with salt while hot.
Assemble the Platter
Arrange crispy cod and golden onion rings on a large serving platter.
Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Serve with tartar sauce, ketchup, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with fries or coleslaw for a classic fish & chips style platter.
Serve with a light green salad for balance.
Add a pint of chilled lemonade or beer for a pub-inspired meal.
Tip for Extra Crispiness: Keep the batter cold and the oil hot – this ensures the cod and onion rings come out extra crunchy and not greasy.