Crispy Fried Cod Loin with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce – A Golden, Flavor-Packed Fish Dish
- Eliane Muskus
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
This golden, crispy fried cod loin is coated in a light, crunchy batter and finished with a vibrant sweet chili garlic sauce. It’s the kind of dish that looks restaurant-quality but is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. The cod remains flaky and moist on the inside while the batter turns beautifully crisp. Serve it with jasmine rice, steamed bok choy, or a crunchy cucumber salad for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Fish:
600 g cod loin, cut into 8–10 equal bite-size pieces for even cooking
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch (Maizena)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 egg
200 ml sparkling water (cold)
Neutral oil, for frying (vegetable, sunflower, or canola)
For the Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small red chili (or 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes), finely chopped
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 teaspoons fish sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
Juice of 1/2 lime
📌 For Garnish:
Handful of crispy fried basil leaves or fresh coriander
Extra lime wedges
Preparation:
The Fish:
Season the cod pieces with salt and pepper. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Make the Batter:
Crack in the egg and slowly whisk in the cold sparkling water until a smooth, thick batter forms.
3. Fry the Fish:
Heat 5–6 cm of oil in a heavy pan over medium-high heat. When hot (about 180°C), dip the cod pieces into the batter, let excess drip off, and carefully lower them into the oil. Fry in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a small saucepan. Add garlic and chili, and sauté gently until fragrant. Stir in the vinegar, sweet chili sauce, fish sauce (if using), honey, and lime juice. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
5. Serve:
Arrange the fried cod on a platter and drizzle with the sauce. Top with crispy basil leaves or fresh coriander. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
📌 Serving Suggestions:
Serve with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
Add a side of stir-fried Asian greens, grilled baby bok choy, or a Thai-style cucumber salad
For a lighter option, serve over a crisp herb salad with lime vinaigrette
