Oven frying fish is a fantastic way to get that perfect crispy skin without all the mess and fuss of deep frying. It’s also a healthier option, as it doesn’t require nearly as much oil. So, how do you oven fry fish? Check out this step-by-step guide with photos, courtesy of The Kitchn, and you’ll be an expert in no time!
How to prepare the fish
In order to oven fry fish, you will need to prepare the fish by coating it in a light layer of oil. You can either use vegetable oil or olive oil. Once the fish is coated in oil, you will need to season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Then, you will need to dredge the fish in a mixture of flour and cornmeal. The ratio of flour to cornmeal should be about 1:1.
Once the fish is coated in the flour mixture, you will need to place it on a wire rack that has been lightly coated with cooking spray. The wire rack will help to ensure that the fish doesn’t stick to the pan and also helps to promote even cooking. You will then need to bake the fish at a high temperature, typically around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, for 10-12 minutes.
What type of fish to use
There are many different types of fish that can be oven fried. Some of the most popular include:
-Cod
-Halibut
-Tilapia
-Salmon
-Trout
When choosing a type of fish to oven fry, it is important to consider the thickness of the fish. Thicker fish such as cod and halibut will take longer to cook through, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thinner fish such as tilapia and trout will cook more quickly, so keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.
How to fry the fish
Assuming you have a fillet of fish and some oil:
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the fillet in a baking dish, and cover it with oil.
3. Bake the fillet for 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through.
4. Remove the fillet from the oven, and enjoy!
What oil to use
There are a few things to consider when choosing what oil to use for oven frying fish. The first is the smoke point of the oil. The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil starts to smoke and break down. This can cause the fish to have a bitter taste.
Canola oil, peanut oil, and vegetable oil all have high smoke points and are good choices for oven frying fish. Olive oil has a lower smoke point, so it’s not the best choice for this method of cooking.
Another consideration is the flavor of the oil. Some oils, like olive oil, will impart their flavor onto the fish. If you want a neutral-tasting fry, choose an oil with a neutral flavor, like canola oil or vegetable oil.
Finally, consider how healthy the oil is. Some oils, like olive oil, are packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. Other oils, like canola oil and peanut oil, are high in unhealthy saturated fats. Choose an oil based on your own health preferences.
Cooking times for different fish
The cooking times for different fish can vary greatly. For example, a thick fillet of salmon will take longer to cook through than a thin filet of cod. The best way to ensure your fish is cooked properly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to tell when the fish is done
When baking or roasting fish, it’s important to know when the fish is done. Undercooked fish can be dry, rubbery, and difficult to chew. overcooked fish can be equally unappetizing, with a mushy texture and an unpleasant, fishy flavor. Here are a few tips to help you tell when your fish is perfectly cooked:
1. Check the color of the flesh: The flesh of a properly cooked fish should be opaque all the way through. If you can see any traces of pink or red, the fish isn’t done yet.
2. Check for firmness: Gently press on the flesh of the fish with a fork or your finger. It should offer some resistance and spring back when you release it. If it feels mushy or falls apart easily, it’s overcooked.
3. Check for flakiness: Cooked fish should separate into flakes easily when prodded with a fork. If it’s still clinging together in large pieces, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
Oven frying fish is a great way to get all the flavor of fried fish without all the fat. By following these simple tips, you can oven fry fish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve your oven fried fish with a healthy side dish and enjoy!