Indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy fried grouper, creamy tartar sauce, and fresh lettuce with this mouthwatering sandwich recipe.
The delicate flavors of the grouper, enhanced by a light cast iron frying, perfectly complement the tangy tartar sauce and crisp lettuce. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a delicious meal, this sandwich will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 grouper fillets
- 2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning – or other all purpose
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- olive oil
- 2 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- tartar sauce
Instructions:
Prepare the Grouper:
In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk. Pat the grouper fillets dry with paper towels.
Dip each fillet into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Ensure they are evenly coated.
Fry the Grouper:
In a cast iron skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated grouper fillets into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Internal temp should be 145’F. Once fried, transfer the fillets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Once the fish is done you can toast the buns in the same pan.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a fried grouper fillet on top of the tartar sauce.
Layer lettuce leaves over the grouper fillet. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the lettuce for added flavor. Top with the other half of the bun.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use a different type of fish? A: While grouper is recommended for its mild flavor and firm texture, you can certainly use other white fish like cod or haddock as a substitute.
Q: Can I bake the fillets instead of frying them? A: Yes, you can bake the coated fillets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and crispy.
Tips and Tricks:
- To ensure a crispy coating, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fillets. A good indicator is when a small piece of bread dropped into the oil sizzles and turns golden brown quickly.
- Patting the fish fillets dry before coating them helps the flour mixture adhere better.
- Customize your sandwich with additional toppings like sliced tomatoes, onions, or even a slice of cheese.
- Use a fish spatula or slotted spoon to gently flip and remove the fillets from the hot oil to prevent breaking.
- For a lighter version, you can opt for whole wheat buns and use less oil for frying.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Breading Variations: Experiment with different breading options by adding herbs or spices to the flour mixture. Dried thyme, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can add an extra layer of flavor to the coating.
- Healthier Frying: If you’re looking to cut down on oil, you can use an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior while using minimal oil. Lightly brush the fillets with oil before air frying for a healthier alternative.
- Homemade Buns: Elevate your sandwich by using homemade hamburger buns. They can add an extra layer of freshness and flavor to the dish. Look up simple bun recipes or purchase high-quality buns from a local bakery.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your lightly fried grouper sandwich with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the flavors and textures of the sandwich beautifully.
- Garnish Options: Aside from lettuce and lemon wedges, you can garnish your sandwich with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Thinly sliced red onion or cucumber can also provide a refreshing crunch.
- Frying Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent frying temperature by using a cooking thermometer. This will help ensure that the fish cooks evenly and the coating crisps up nicely without getting overly greasy.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the tartar sauce and breading mixture ahead of time. Store the tartar sauce in the refrigerator and the breading mixture in an airtight container until you’re ready to fry the fish.
This lightly fried grouper sandwich is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the sea, combined with the richness of tartar sauce and the freshness of lettuce. With the guidance provided in this recipe, along with the FAQ, tips, and tricks, you’re well-equipped to create a restaurant-worthy sandwich in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your cast iron skillet, and get ready to savor each delicious bite of this culinary masterpiece!
Sides to go with Grouper Sandwich
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Accordion Potatoes | Air Fryer
- Mediterranean Inspired Greek Pasta Salad
- Cast Iron Succotash
Or if you have some leftover grouper, add it to a Poke Bowl!
Lightly Fried Grouper Sandwich
Equipment
- Cast Iron
Ingredients
- 2 grouper fillets
- 2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning – or other all purpose
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- olive oil
- 2 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- tartar sauce
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk. Pat the grouper fillets dry with paper towels.
- Dip each fillet into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Ensure they are evenly coated.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated grouper fillets into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Internal temp should be 145’F. Once fried, transfer the fillets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Once the fish is done you can toast the buns in the same pan.
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a fried grouper fillet on top of the tartar sauce.
- Layer lettuce leaves over the grouper fillet. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the lettuce for added flavor. Top with the other half of the bun.
