Air Fryer Battered Cod: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Cooking battered cod in an air fryer is a quick and healthy alternative to deep-fat frying. The air fryer gives the cod a crispy, golden crust while keeping the inside tender and flaky. It is also a versatile dish that can be served with a range of sides, such as French fries, salad, or rice. However, it is important to note that the batter may slide off the fish when using an air fryer, so frozen battered cod or breaded cod may be a better option.

Cooking Battered Cod in an Air Fryer

Air fryer cod recipes

Air fryers are a great way to cook fish, and cod is no exception. You can cook battered cod in an air fryer, but it's important to note that the batter can slide off if it's not prepared correctly. The key to success is to use frozen battered cod or to ensure that the batter sticks to the fish before cooking.

One way to ensure the batter sticks is to create a breading station with three bowls. Fill the first bowl with flour, the second with whisked eggs and salt, and the final bowl with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each cod fillet first into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally, the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure the panko sticks to the fish and coats it fully.

Once your fish is breaded, spritz your air fryer basket with non-stick spray or brush it with oil. Place the fish in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and spray or brush the fish with oil. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10 minutes. Flip the fish and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fish reads 145°F.

If you want to add some extra flavour to your cod, you can season the fillets with salt and pepper before coating them in flour. You can also serve your air fryer cod with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or even make fish tacos!

For those who prefer a healthier option, you can cook cod in the air fryer without batter. Simply season the cod with your desired spices and air fry until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This method is a great way to enjoy crispy, tender cod without the batter.

Beer batter for cod

Beer-battered cod is a classic pub staple that can be made in an air fryer with a few adjustments. The traditional method involves dipping the fish in a wet beer batter and then frying it in hot oil, but this can be tricky in an air fryer as the batter tends to slide off. To make it work, you need to double-dip the fish in the batter and flour to ensure a thorough coating. The beer batter should be thick and consist of flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. You can also add an egg to the mixture for a smoother consistency.

Once the fish is coated, it's important to apply oil to its exterior. This can be done by spraying the fish with cooking spray or olive oil spray until there is no dry flour left. Preheat your air fryer to 380-390°F, place the fish in the basket, and spray again with oil. Set the timer for 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the batter doesn't dry out. The fish is ready when it's golden and flaky, with an internal temperature of 145°F.

The beauty of this recipe is that it captures the classic pub-style taste but with a fraction of the oil used in traditional deep-frying. It's a healthier, lighter option that doesn't compromise on flavor. The beer batter is airy and fluffy, providing a wonderful breading for the flaky, buttery fish. This method is also quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, crispy piece of fish without the guilt of excessive oil.

To elevate your beer-battered cod, serve it with tartar sauce, slaw, or a squeeze of lemon. For a true fish fry experience, pair it with French fries and coleslaw. The versatility of cod allows you to get creative, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favorite combination. Enjoy the crunch and indulge in this guilt-free treat!

How to prevent cod from sticking to the air fryer

Yes, you can cook battered cod in an air fryer. However, it is important to note that fresh, battered cod does not work well in an air fryer as the batter tends to slide off. Frozen battered cod, on the other hand, can be cooked easily.

To prevent cod from sticking to the air fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to ensure that the air fryer basket or tray is greased properly. This can be done by brushing the basket or tray with oil. Oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil and sunflower oil, are recommended for air fryers. Olive oil can also be used, but it is important to note that extra-virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point and should be avoided. A non-stick spray can also be used as an alternative to oils, but it is important to note that cooking aerosols can potentially harm the air fryer unit due to the added properties they contain.

Secondly, the cod fillets should be prepared properly before placing them in the air fryer. The cod should be patted dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Additionally, brushing the cod fillets with oil before placing them in the air fryer can help prevent sticking.

Finally, it is important to avoid flipping the cod while it is cooking in the air fryer, as uncooked fish is more likely to stick to the basket. Instead, it is recommended to cook the cod in batches to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

By following these steps, you can help prevent cod from sticking to your air fryer and achieve delicious, crispy results.

Reheating cod in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat cod in an air fryer. It is a great way to ensure that your fish does not become overcooked and dries out. It also helps to retain the crispiness of the coating.

To reheat cod in an air fryer, first allow the fish to fully cool, then place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. The next day, place the cod in the air fryer basket, spraying it with extra virgin olive oil. Reheat for about 5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are reheating frozen cod, preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually takes around 3 minutes. Spritz the fish with cooking oil and cook for 2 minutes on each side. You can also add a bit of water to the bottom of the dish or butter to the top of the fish to retain moisture. Wrapping the fish in tin foil will also help to prevent it from drying out.

Cod cooking times and temperatures

Cod is a versatile fish that can be cooked in an air fryer from frozen or fresh. It is recommended to use thicker cod fillets or loins as they are less likely to dry out during cooking.

To cook fresh cod in an air fryer, preheat the appliance to 350°F (180°C) and pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper or other spices like paprika and garlic powder. Place the cod in the air fryer basket and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at its thickest point.

To cook frozen cod in an air fryer, there is no need to preheat the appliance. Air fry the frozen fillets for 3–4 minutes to thaw, then add olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. Continue air frying for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flaky. The internal temperature should still reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets and the desired doneness. For a moister texture, some people prefer to remove the cod from the air fryer when the internal temperature reaches 135–140°F (57–60°C). Additionally, if you are cooking breaded or battered cod, the cooking process will be different as you need to prevent the coating from sliding off.

Frequently asked questions