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Crispy Pan Fried Cod Fish

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing

Instructions
 

  • Remove cod fillets from the fridge 10 minutes before cooking and pat completely dry with paper towels on both sides.
  • Mix flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder in a shallow bowl. Dredge each fillet through the mixture and shake off excess.
  • Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
  • Place fillets in the pan carefully. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until edges look opaque halfway up.
  • Flip once, add butter to the pan, and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon over the top, scatter parsley, and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Notes

Always pat your cod completely dry before dredging — this is the single most important step for getting a golden, crispy crust instead of a pale, soggy one.
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