Classic McDonald's Filet-O-Fish Inspired Sandwich (Print version)
A homemade fast-food-style fish sandwich with crisp white fish, tartar sauce, American cheese, and a soft steamed bun.
# Ingredients:
For the tartar sauce
01 -
1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
02 -
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
03 -
1 tablespoon very finely minced white onion
04 -
1 teaspoon lemon juice
05 -
1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
06 -
1 pinch salt
For the fish
07 -
1 lb (450 g) cod, pollock, haddock, or tilapia fillets
08 -
1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
09 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
10 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 -
1/2 teaspoon paprika
12 -
1 large egg
13 -
2 tablespoons milk
14 -
1 cup (90 g) fine plain breadcrumbs
15 -
1/2 cup (120 ml) neutral oil, for shallow frying
For assembly
16 -
4 soft hamburger buns
17 -
2 slices American cheese, halved
18 -
Extra tartar sauce, as needed
# Instructions:
01 -
Stir together mayonnaise, pickle relish, minced onion, lemon juice, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the fish.
02 -
Cut the fish into 4 bun-size pieces. Pat very dry with paper towels so the coating sticks and the fish fries cleanly.
03 -
Mix flour with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, and paprika in one shallow bowl. Whisk egg and milk in a second bowl. Place breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a third bowl.
04 -
Dredge each fish piece in seasoned flour, dip in egg mixture, then press into breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Rest the coated fish for 5 minutes.
05 -
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through to 145°F. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
06 -
Wrap each bun in a barely damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until warm and soft.
07 -
Place a half slice of American cheese on each bottom bun. Add hot fried fish, spoon tartar sauce over the top, and close with the warm bun. Serve immediately.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served right after assembly while the fish is crisp and the bun is soft.
02 -
Use fine breadcrumbs for a smoother fast-food-style crust.
03 -
Cook fish to 145°F for food safety.