To make a Long John Silver’s-style batter, you typically need a combination of flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and water. For a basic recipe, you can use 3/4 cup flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 3/4 cup water. This mixture will create a crispy coating for frying fish or chicken.
Long John Silver’s Batter Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the batter.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Adds crispiness and lightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with leavening.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Provides additional puffiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
- 3/4 cup cold water: To achieve the right batter consistency.
Instructions
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Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to ensure there are no lumps.
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Add Water:
- Gradually pour in the cold water while stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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Coat the Fish:
- Dip your fish or chicken filets into the batter, ensuring they are fully covered. Let any excess batter drip off.
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Heat the Oil:
- In a deep fryer or large pot, heat enough oil to fully submerge the filets to 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and float.
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Fry the Filets:
- Carefully place the battered filets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Flip them halfway through if necessary for even cooking.
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Drain and Serve:
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the filets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
Tips for Perfect Batter
- Temperature Control: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy fish.
- Batter Consistency: Adjust the water to achieve the desired thickness; it should not be too runny or too thick.
- Variations: You can experiment with adding spices like garlic powder or cayenne for extra flavor.
This batter is versatile and can be used for various fried foods, not just fish! Enjoy your homemade Long John Silver’s experience!