7 Crispy Sides for Fried Fish: Tasty and Irresistible Options that will delight your taste buds !
There’s something magical about the sound of fish frying—its golden batter crisping up to perfection. Whether it’s a quick meal at home or part of a special gathering, fried fish hits all the right notes: flavor, texture, and nostalgia. But as delicious as it is on its own, every great main course deserves a fantastic side. Pairing fried fish with the right crispy sides can take your meal from good to extraordinary. If you’re tired of the same old sides and want to explore some crispy, mouthwatering options, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll walk you through seven crispy sides for fried fish that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a fan of the classic French fry or looking for something a bit more gourmet, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why Crispy Sides Are the Perfect Pairing for Fried Fish
Texture plays a huge role in the way you experience food. Fried fish is known for its light and flaky interior, contrasted by its crispy outer layer. Adding a crispy side enhances that experience, offering both visual and textural appeal. Picture this: the tenderness of the fish met with the crunch of a perfectly seasoned fry or the crisp bite of a fresh slaw. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
But there’s more to it than just texture. Flavor balance is crucial too. Fried fish tends to be rich and savory, and crispy sides often provide a refreshing contrast. Whether it’s the tang of vinegar in coleslaw or the salty crunch of fries, these sides balance the meal, making it more enjoyable and memorable.
Let’s take a look at eight of the best crispy sides you can pair with your next fried fish dish.
1. Crispy French Fries – A Classic Choice Sides for fried fish
When you think of sides for fried fish, French fries are probably the first thing that comes to mind. There’s a reason they’re a classic—they’re universally loved, easy to make, and deliver that all-important crunch with every bite. But how do you make sure your fries are the perfect golden-brown crispy accompaniment to your fried fish?
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Fries
- Type of Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content. They crisp up beautifully when fried.
- Double Fry Method: For that unbeatable crunch, fry your potatoes twice. The first fry cooks the potatoes, while the second fry at a higher temperature makes them golden and crispy.
- Seasoning Secrets: Season your fries immediately after frying, while they’re still hot, to ensure the salt and any herbs you choose stick to the surface.
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 4 large |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| Salt | To taste |
| Herbs (optional) | To taste |
Follow these steps, and you’ll have crispy, golden fries every time!
2. Crispy Coleslaw – A Fresh, Tangy Bite as side for fried fish
If you’re looking for something that provides a contrast to the warmth and richness of fried fish, coleslaw is your best friend. It’s fresh, tangy, and brings a delightful crunch to the table. The key to a great coleslaw lies in balancing the textures and flavors.
How to Make Crispy Coleslaw
- Cabbage Choices: Use a combination of red and green cabbage for a vibrant and crunchy mix.
- Dressing Variety: While a creamy mayo-based dressing is traditional, a vinegar-based dressing can add a tangy zip that complements fried fish beautifully.
- Add-Ins for Extra Texture: Think outside the box by adding shredded carrots, apples, or even nuts to give your coleslaw an extra crunch.
Here’s a simple ingredient table to craft your own crispy coleslaw:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Green cabbage (shredded) | 1 small head |
| Red cabbage (shredded) | 1/2 head |
| Carrots (shredded) | 2 medium |
| Mayo or vinegar dressing | 1 cup (adjust to taste) |
Whether creamy or tangy, coleslaw is the perfect palate cleanser between bites of fried fish.
3. Onion Rings – The Perfect Crispy as side for fried fish
Onion rings are another iconic side that pairs wonderfully with fried fish. Their crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior create a delightful contrast that complements the flaky texture of the fish.
The Secret to Perfect Onion Rings
- Batter Tips: A beer batter can add a wonderful lightness and extra crispiness to your onion rings.
- Temperature Matters: Frying at the right temperature (around 375°F) is crucial for getting that crisp coating without a greasy aftertaste.
- Seasoning: Don’t shy away from adding a bit of garlic powder or paprika to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Onion rings are a perfect side when you want something hearty yet crispy to round out your meal.
4. Hush Puppies – A Southern Favorite
Hush puppies might not be as common as fries or onion rings, but they are a beloved Southern classic that pairs perfectly with fried fish. These little cornmeal-based balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, adding a flavorful and textural contrast to your meal.
Making the Perfect Hush Puppies
- Cornmeal Base: The key to a good hush puppy is the cornmeal batter. It should be slightly sweet, with a soft center and crunchy exterior.
- Frying Temperature: Like most fried foods, the oil temperature is key—too hot and they’ll burn, too cold and they’ll be soggy.
- Add-In Ingredients: Chopped onions or jalapeños are common additions to add a little kick to the flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cornmeal | 1 cup |
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Chopped onion | 1/4 cup |
| Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Next time you’re serving fried fish, consider adding hush puppies for a crispy, flavorful side that’s sure to impress.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – A Healthy Twist
Looking for something a bit healthier but still crave that crunch? Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice. Roasting Brussels sprouts at a high temperature gives them a golden-brown, crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and flavorful.
How to Achieve Perfect Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Roast at High Heat: Roasting at 425°F ensures maximum crispiness. Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow even roasting.
- Seasoning Options: Try tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
- Slice Them Thinly: Cutting the Brussels sprouts in half or slicing them thinly can make them even crispier.
Brussels sprouts might not be your first thought for a fried fish side, but their crispy texture and tangy flavor make them a fantastic, healthy option.
6. Tempura Vegetables – A Light, Crispy Option
Tempura vegetables are a lighter, crispier option that pairs wonderfully with fried fish. Tempura batter is different from typical batter—it’s thinner, lighter, and delivers an airy crunch that doesn’t overwhelm your taste buds.
How to Master Tempura Vegetables
- Batter Consistency: A good tempura batter should be cold and thin. The colder the batter, the crispier the tempura will be when fried.
- Vegetable Options: Zucchini, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and broccoli work particularly well in tempura.
- Frying Tips: Fry at a slightly lower temperature (around 350°F) to achieve a crisp exterior without overcooking the vegetables.
Tempura vegetables are perfect if you’re looking for a lighter side that still packs plenty of crunch.
7. Polenta Fries – A Gourmet Twist
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique to serve with your fried fish, crispy polenta fries offer a gourmet twist. Polenta fries are rich and flavorful, with a crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior.
How to Make Polenta Fries
- Use Pre-Cooked Polenta: For convenience, you can use pre-cooked polenta, cut into strips and fried to a golden crisp.
- Baking vs. Frying: While frying will give you the crispiest result, baking at 425°F is a healthier option that still delivers a satisfying crunch.
- Flavor Enhancements: Try adding Parmesan or rosemary to the batter for an extra depth of flavor.
Polenta fries add a touch of sophistication to your fried fish dinner, offering a crispy, savory side with a hint of creaminess.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Fried Fish with These Crispy Sides
Fried fish is a meal that many enjoy for its simplicity and deliciousness. But when you add the right crispy sides, it transforms into something truly special. Whether you stick with classics like French fries and onion rings or venture into more unique options like polenta fries or tempura vegetables, these crispy sides bring balance, flavor, and excitement to your meal.
Now it’s your turn—try out these sides, mix and match them, and discover your favorite
