Delicious Fried White Bass Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Crispy Fish

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering seafood dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, look no further than this fried white bass recipe. White……

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering seafood dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, look no further than this fried white bass recipe. White bass, known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, is a popular choice for frying. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of creating perfectly crispy fried white bass that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

### Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare this delectable fried white bass, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry:

- **Fresh white bass fillets**: Aim for about 1 to 1.5 pounds of fillets, ensuring they are skinless and boneless for easy eating.

- **All-purpose flour**: This is essential for creating a crispy coating.

- **Cornmeal**: Adding cornmeal to your flour mix will enhance the crunchiness of the batter.

- **Eggs**: You’ll need a couple of eggs for the egg wash, which helps the coating adhere to the fish.

- **Milk**: Combined with the eggs, milk will create a rich wash for the fish.

- **Seasonings**: Use a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to season the flour mixture. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

- **Oil**: For frying, vegetable oil or canola oil works best due to their high smoke points.

### Preparing the Fried White Bass

1. **Prepare the Fish**: Start by rinsing the white bass fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes any excess moisture, ensuring a crispy finish when frying.

2. **Make the Coating**: In a shallow bowl, combine equal parts flour and cornmeal (about one cup each). Add the seasonings to this mixture, adjusting to your taste. This seasoned flour will be the key to achieving that crispy exterior.

3. **Create the Egg Wash**: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This egg wash will help the flour mixture stick to the fish.

4. **Coat the Fillets**: Dip each fillet first into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the fillet in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the coated fillet on a plate and repeat with the remaining fillets.

### Frying the White Bass

5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the coating into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready for frying.

6. **Fry the Fillets**: Carefully place the coated white bass fillets into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

7. **Drain and Serve**: Once cooked, remove the fillets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step will help keep the fish crispy.

### Serving Suggestions

Serve your fried white bass hot and crispy, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for added flavor. Pair it with tartar sauce or a homemade remoulade for a delicious dipping experience. This dish goes wonderfully with sides such as coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad.

### Conclusion

This fried white bass recipe is not only easy to prepare but also results in a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or simply craving some comfort food, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its crispy exterior and flaky interior, fried white bass is a dish that will leave everyone wanting more. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a delicious seafood feast that you can proudly serve!