Air-Fryer Battered Cod: A Tasty, Healthy Treat?

Battered cod is a classic, but is it possible to achieve that crispy, golden texture without the grease and mess of deep-frying? The answer is yes – thanks to the air fryer! This handy kitchen appliance lets you enjoy a light and crunchy exterior with a flaky, tender interior, minus the calories and guilt. It's a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried options and is perfect for weeknight dinners. So, if you're craving that crispy, buttery texture without the hassle of a stinky kitchen and greasy stovetop, the air fryer is your new best friend.

The benefits of cooking battered cod in an air fryer

Battered cod is a delicious meal, but it can be a messy and unhealthy process to deep-fry the fish. Here are some benefits of cooking battered cod in an air fryer:

Healthier Option

Deep-frying fish typically involves a lot of oil, which can be unhealthy and add extra calories. Air fryers allow you to achieve a crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier alternative.

Reduced Mess

Air fryers are a more convenient option as they reduce the mess associated with traditional frying methods. There is no need to deal with a greasy stovetop or the strong smell of oil that can linger in your kitchen.

Quick and Easy

Cooking battered cod in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. The preparation is simple, and the cooking time is typically around 10 to 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Crispy Texture

The air fryer produces a crispy and crunchy texture that rivals that of traditionally fried fish. The batter coating is thicker and heartier, providing a delightful contrast to the tender and flaky fish.

No Hot Oil

Using an air fryer eliminates the need to deal with hot oil, making it a safer and less intimidating option. There is no risk of oil splatter or the hassle of disposing of large amounts of used oil.

Consistent Results

Air fryers provide consistent results with each batch of battered cod. The batter doesn't fall apart or fall off during the cooking process, ensuring every bite has a consistent texture and taste.

How to prepare the cod fillets

Preparing the cod fillets is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare the cod fillets for your battered cod in an air fryer:

Choose and Prep Your Cod Fillets:

Start by selecting high-quality, fresh cod fillets that are firm with a light, clean scent. If you are using frozen cod, it is crucial to thaw it evenly to ensure it cooks correctly. Place the frozen cod in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed bag of cold water to quicken the thawing process. Avoid using hot water, as this can start cooking the fish.

Seasoning:

Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. This step is essential to removing excess moisture, which can affect the browning and crispiness of the final product. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also experiment with other seasonings like Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, thyme, oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, or chili powder.

Coating the Fillets:

Now it's time to coat the fillets! Lightly dust each fillet with all-purpose flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, dip each floured fillet into whisked eggs, followed by a generous coating of Panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently into the fish to ensure they adhere well. This three-step breading method helps keep the fish moist while creating a crispy crust.

Air Frying:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded cod fillets in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch each other. Spritz or spray each fillet with oil to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. The cod is ready when it is golden brown, crispy, and flaky on the inside. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.

Tips for Success:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Always preheat your air fryer before adding the cod fillets.
• Spritz or spray both sides of the breaded fillets with oil.
• Flip the cod fillets halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Allow the air fryer to cool down before cleaning it.

How to make the batter

To make the batter for battered cod in an air fryer, you'll need to first pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Then, prepare three shallow dishes for dredging. In the first dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. In the second dish, whisk an egg. For the third dish, add Panko breadcrumbs.

Now, it's time to coat the fillets! Start by lightly dusting the fish with the flour mixture from the first dish. Then, dip each fillet in the whisked egg from the second dish. Finally, coat the fillets generously in the Panko breadcrumbs from the third dish, making sure to press the breadcrumbs gently into the fish. This three-step breading method helps keep the fish moist while creating a delicate, crispy crust.

If you're using a beer batter, the process is a little different. In one bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beer and whisk until a smooth batter forms. Dip each piece of fish into the beer batter, coating it completely. Then, dip the battered fish into seasoned flour and press gently to adhere. This double-dipping method helps the batter stick to the fish.

How to cook the battered cod in the air fryer

How to Cook Battered Cod in an Air Fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
• 12 ounces of your favourite beer (a light wheat beer works well)
• Pickled onions, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Tartar sauce, for serving
• A pinch of salt and pepper
• 4 cups of shredded green cabbage
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Kosher salt and pepper

Method:

• Pat the fish dry with paper towels.
• Place 1 cup of flour in a bowl and add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to mix.
• In another bowl, whisk together the remaining cup of flour, the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beer and whisk until a smooth batter forms.
• Dip each piece of fish into the beer batter, coating it completely. Then, dip it into the seasoned flour and gently press the flour to adhere. This double-dipping method ensures the batter doesn't drip off.
• Spray the air fryer basket generously with non-stick/olive oil spray.
• Heat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place the fish in the basket and spray all over with non-stick/olive oil spray.
• Set the timer for 12 minutes, checking once or twice during cooking to see if you need to spray again to prevent the batter from drying out.
• While the air fryer is running, prepare your tartar sauce and slaw.
• Remove the fish gently and serve with the sauce and slaw. Provide lemon wedges for spritzing!

Tips:

• It's important to pat the fish dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture and ensure better browning.
• Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature before placing the cod inside for even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Ensure there is space between the fillets for air to circulate. You may need to cook in batches.
• Spritz or spray the fillets with oil to promote even browning and a crispy texture.
• Flip the cod halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.

Tips for making cod in the air fryer

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. The cod fillets shouldn't be touching, so cook them in two batches if needed.
• Remove as much moisture from the fish before breading it. Dab the fish with an absorbent kitchen towel to get rid of any excess moisture. If the fish is too wet, it can steam, meaning that your breadcrumb coating could end up soggy rather than crispy.
• Preheat your air fryer. This means that the temperature and airflow will be at the right level when you cook the fish. If you don't preheat it, it can cook your food unevenly.
• Make sure that the cod is cooked through. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, they may take slightly longer, or shorter, to cook through. Use a fork to test the thickest piece—the flesh should easily flake.
• Don't use still-frozen fish. The breadcrumb coating will not stick, and the fish will contain a lot of water. Instead, let the fish thaw overnight in the fridge and remove as much excess water as you can.
• If you're making beer-battered cod, you'll need to double-dip the fish. First, dip the fish in the beer batter, then into flour, so it coats the batter. Then, spray it with olive oil before placing it in the air fryer.

Frequently asked questions