Let me start off by saying, who doesn’t love fish nuggets?! This recipe is similar to fish sticks. Although miniature in size, it is packed with a crunchy flavor! I was inspired to make the homemade fish nuggets because I created the boom boom sauce recipe. Since this sauce is typically used for shrimp, I thought it would great to pair it with fish bites. I feel like this takes the fish nuggets up to a higher level. Even if you don’t want to try the boom boom sauce, help yourself to condiments such as ranch dressing, hot sauce, or ketchup.Â
In addition, the flour options I used ensure the fish are flaky on the inside while crispy golden on the outside. This recipe is one of a kind as it recreates a feeling of dining at your favorite seafood spot. Anywho, Â I hope you enjoy this fried fish nuggets recipe just as much as I did!
Why you’ll love these crispy fish nuggets:
- Quick and amazing seafood appetizer
- This versatile dish (You can be use this recipe for fish tacos, nachos, etc.)
- Easily controlled portions for everyone
- Short cooking time
Frequently asked questions:
- How can I store this recipe?
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks.
- How can I reheat the leftover fish?
- The breaded nuggets should be reheated in an oven on 325F for 4-5 minutes.
- For reheating, leftover fish nuggets can be placed in an conventional oven.
Wet coating ingredients:
These ingredients gives the recipe the extra crispiness.
All-purpose flour – provides structure in most fried recipes so that the protein or vegetable is not burned while frying.Â
Egg- helps achieve the golden-brown color in the finished product.
Seasonings – Cayenne pepper. garlic powder, onion powder,
Hot sauce – Adds a tangy and spicy flavor to the dish.
Dry coating ingredients:
All-purpose flour
Salt & Pepper
Basic Information & Instructions:
- When cooking this recipe, ensure grouper is free from excess moisture as this will yield the best results when attempting this fish fry. Patting the fish with a paper towel will accomplish this.
- Use two separate bowls for flour and egg wash. Use a medium to large bowl for the flour, and a small bowl for the egg wash.
- As you coat your fresh fish, with the flour options presented above, along with the egg wash, this ensure you a nice and crispy outer layer. Please make you sure you
- When heating your oil, make sure you use an instant or internal thermometer if deep frying. Getting the right temperature is key as you don’t want to flour coating on your fish without cooking the fish itself.
For more detailed instructions, please review the full recipe in the recipe card below.
Looking for more of my appetizer favorites? Try the Spicy Crab Salad or Shrimp Nachos.
Fish Nuggets
Amazing crispy fish nugget recipe is the perfect appetizer!
Ingredients
- 1lb Grouper Fish
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- Oil (vegetable or peanut)
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Using a grouper fish fillet, pat down with a paper towel and season with kosher salt.
- Carefully cut the fish fillet into 3-4 inch chunks or pieces.
- Season fish with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, pepper. etc.
- Set fish aside on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine all-purpose flour, egg, and buttermilk for the wet breading mixture. Whisk all three ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, pour all-purpose flour for the second coating process.
- First coat each piece of fish with the wet flour mixture. Make sure to remove any excess egg before the next step.
- After coating with the wet flour mixture, coat with dry flour mixture. This will ensure that the outer golden brown crust.
- In a frying pan, heat oil on medium-high heat, or until oil is heated to 350F.
- Carefully place pieces of fish into the hot oil and cook on each side for 4 minutes on each side or until it reaches a golden crispy exterior.
- Remove the freshly fried fish onto a wire rack or a parchment-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Quickly season the freshly fried fish with kosher salt.
- As you plate your fish nuggets, you may use a small piece of parchment paper to ensure fish is properly drained of oil.
- Serve with a fresh lemon wedges and enjoy!
Notes
Note 1: You may use peanut oil in place of vegetable oil.