Ingredients

1 lb cod fillets (cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs (beaten)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil (for frying, as needed)

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

1 clove garlic (minced)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

Step 3: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 4: Dip each piece of cod into the flour mixture, fully coating it. Shake off excess flour.

Step 5: Next, dip the floured cod into the beaten eggs.

Step 6: Finally, roll the cod in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick.

Step 7: Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 8: When the oil is hot, fry the cod bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 9: Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 10: Remove the cod bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 11: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, parsley, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 12: Serve the crispy garlic cod bites alongside the creamy lemon herb dip and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, try mixing some grated Parmesan into the panko breadcrumbs before coating.

Use cod tails or other white fish like haddock or pollock as a substitute.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a bit of heat.

The dip can be made ahead and kept chilled to allow flavors to meld.

FAQs

Can I bake the cod bites instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

Cod is cooked when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. During frying, this usually takes 3-4 minutes per side depending on the size of the pieces.