Crispy Fried Fish Sticks with

Crispy Fried Fish Sticks with

Ingredients:

• For the Fish Sticks:
  • 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or catfish)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish Sticks:
   • Cut the fish fillets into strips, about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
   • Pat the fish strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
   • In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour.
   • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
   • In a third shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Fish Sticks:
   • Dredge each fish strip in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured fish strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Coat the fish strip in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
4. Fry the Fish Sticks:
   • Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the breaded fish sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry the fish sticks for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the fish sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve:
   • Arrange the crispy fish sticks on a serving platter.
   • Serve with the creamy dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy fried fish sticks with a tangy and creamy dipping sauce! This makes for a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.