Long John Silver’s Batter is renowned for its light, crispy texture and perfect golden crunch. This iconic recipe is a favorite for seafood and chicken lovers alike, bringing restaurant-quality flavor to your home. Master this easy-to-follow recipe and elevate your meals with the unmistakable taste of Long John Silver’s signature batter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornflour (cornstarch)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ¼ cups cold soda water (or club soda)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking powder, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Slowly pour in the cold soda water while whisking the mixture continuously. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick but still pourable. Adjust the soda water quantity if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cover the batter with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a lighter, crispier coating.
- Heat cooking oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the food you’ll be frying. Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for optimal results.
- Prepare your seafood or chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. This step ensures the batter adheres well and prevents excess oil splatter.
- Dip each piece of seafood or chicken into the batter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully placing the piece into the hot oil.
- Fry the battered items in small batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the coating turns golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried pieces from the oil. Place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the freshly fried items immediately with your choice of dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup. Pair with coleslaw, fries, or hush puppies for a complete meal.
Enjoy the irresistible crunch and flavor of Long John Silver’s Batter at home! Whether you’re frying fish, shrimp, or chicken, this recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality experience that will delight your family and guests.