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Fried Cod: Simple Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Who can resist a fish dish that is both crispy and juicy at the same time? Fried cod is an easy-to-make recipe that brings a wonderful flavor to your table. Moreover, it is a healthy and versatile choice, perfect for a quick dinner or a savory lunch. I will show you step by step how to achieve the most delicious pieces of fried cod, coated in flour and cornmeal, golden and crispy, that will impress any guest.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 pieces of cod (approximately 150-200 g each, fresh or frozen)
- 100 g flour
- 100 g cornmeal
- 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 300 ml oil for frying (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the fish
Start by cleaning and washing the cod pieces well. If you are using frozen fish, make sure it is completely thawed, and then pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This is an important step, as wet fish will create steam during frying, preventing a crispy crust.

Step 2: Seasoning
Drizzle each piece of cod with lemon juice. This step will not only add a touch of freshness but also enhance the flavors. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. You can experiment by adding other spices, such as paprika or garlic powder, for an extra kick of flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the flour mixture
In a large bowl, mix the flour with the cornmeal. This mixture will not only provide a crispy texture on the outside but also a pleasant taste. The flour helps form an even crust, while the cornmeal adds sweetness and a golden appearance.

Step 4: Coating the fish
Take each piece of cod and coat it in the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring it is evenly covered. After coating each piece, shake them gently to remove excess. This is an important trick, as too much flour can lead to a heavy crust.

Step 5: Frying
In a deep pan, heat the oil to medium temperature (about 180°C). Check if the oil is hot enough with a simple test: throw a small piece of batter into the oil; if it starts to sizzle and rises to the surface, it’s ready. Add the cod pieces, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Finally, remove the fish onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Serving
Fried cod can be served alongside a side of vegetables, fresh salad, or, as many prefer, with garlic sauce and warm polenta. These combinations are perfect for complementing the delicious flavor of the fish. Don’t hesitate to add a few lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits
Cod is an excellent source of high-quality protein and is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This recipe is relatively easy to adapt to reduce calorie intake; you can try baking the cod instead of frying it for a healthier option.

Possible Variations
If you want to add a unique touch, you can try adding extra spices to the flour and cornmeal mixture, such as dried herbs (thyme, rosemary) or even chili flakes for a bit of heat. Another option is to replace part of the flour with breadcrumbs for an even crispier crust.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted using other types of white fish, such as halibut or salmon.

2. What recommended side dishes can I use?
In addition to polenta and garlic sauce, you can try mashed potatoes, French fries, or grilled vegetables.

3. How can I store fried cod?
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to be consumed within the next 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

This fried cod recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors and textures that will delight any meal. Enjoy and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite ingredients!