Description

Crispy Garlic Cod Bites are perfectly seasoned, golden-fried pieces of cod served with a refreshing creamy lemon herb dip. This easy-to-make appetizer features crispy panko-coated cod bites paired with a zesty dip made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and garlic, delivering a delicious blend of textures and flavors ideal for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cod Bites

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)

For the Creamy Lemon Herb Dip

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

Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the seasoned flour coating for the cod.
Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the fish.
Prepare Breadcrumbs: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl ready for dredging the cod pieces.
Coat the Cod Bites: Dip each cod piece first into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring complete coverage. Shake off any excess flour, then dip each piece into the beaten eggs.
Breadcrumb the Cod: Roll the floured and egg-coated cod bites in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere well and create a crispy crust.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to reach about ½ inch deep. Heat over medium-high until the oil is hot and ready for frying.
Fry the Cod Bites: Carefully add the coated cod bites into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until the bites are golden brown and crispy.
Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried cod bites from the skillet using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Dip: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.
Season the Dip: Taste the dip and season with salt and pepper according to preference.
Serve: Arrange the crispy garlic cod bites on a serving platter alongside the creamy lemon herb dip and enjoy immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

To ensure crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs which provide a lighter, crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, around 350°F (175°C), to prevent soggy cod bites.
Frying in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and keeps the bites evenly crispy.
Cod can be substituted with other firm white fish like haddock or pollock if desired.
Leftover cod bites can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: crispy cod bites, garlic cod bites, fried cod, creamy lemon dip, fish appetizer, panko cod, lemon herb dip