Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Fish and Batter
- Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels. Cut into 2-inch chunks, removing any bones. Season lightly with salt and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the beaten egg with the cold seltzer water. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy. Don't overmix.
Make the Spicy Mayo
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Fry the Fritters
- Heat oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 375°F. The oil should be at least 3 inches deep.
- Working in batches, dip fish pieces into the batter, letting excess drip off. Carefully lower into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning once halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season immediately with a light sprinkle of salt.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with the spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
Notes
For best results, make sure your oil temperature stays consistent. If it drops too low, the fritters will be greasy. If it's too hot, they'll brown before the fish cooks through. The batter can be made up to 30 minutes ahead, but don't let it sit longer or it will lose its lightness. Leftover spicy mayo keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
