Recreate the classic, golden, and crispy batter that Long John Silver’s is famous for. Perfect for coating fish, chicken, or even vegetables, this batter will give you that restaurant-quality crunch at home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup cold club soda (or cold water for a lighter texture)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Slowly pour in the cold club soda while whisking continuously. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick but not overly runny.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Ensure you have enough oil to submerge the pieces you’re frying.
- Coat the Fish/Chicken:
- Pat the fish, chicken, or vegetables dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Dip each piece into the batter, ensuring an even coating. Let excess batter drip off before placing it in the oil.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Gently lower the battered pieces into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides like coleslaw or hush puppies. Enjoy!
Chef’s Tip: For extra crispiness, double-fry the pieces by briefly frying them again after the first batch is finished.