Fried Cod & Dill Pickle Skewers Recipe

"These make absolutely delicious appetizers. I know, it may sound like an odd combination; but, trust me, they are delicious. I love fried pickles, love fried fish; and, love a tarter/remoulade sauce. So, the first time I tried this, I was really skeptical; but, one bite - and, I was convinced. They are really a fun appetizer for a party. I don't suggest them for a weeknight or weekend dinner - they are party food. I used my mini skewers; so, 2 bites of fish, and 1-2 pickle slices per skewer is all you need. Now, the amounts I suggest are for 8-12 skewers; however, depending on what size skewers, and the ratio of fish-to-pickles, will alter how many skewers you make. Also, skewer them however you like. Just don't forget the dip! Prep and cooking time; does not include resting time on the counter; or, after they are battered."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Remoulade/Tarter Sauce ... You want to make this ahead of time; so, the flavors can develop, or 'mary.' Add everything to a small bowl or measuring cup; and, mix until combined. Then, cover with plastic/saran wrap; and, refrigerated until ready to use. As mentioned, I like a nice tangy mustard flavor; so, I use 2 teaspoons of the whole grain mustard. Make sure to add accordingly to your taste.

Step 2

Panko and Batter ... I like to grind the panko bread crumbs in my food processor to get a finer texture. Just a few pulses - when it is 'finer ground,' it tends to work better.

Step 3

Also, add all the ingredients for the batter to a bowl; and, mix to combine. Let it rest a good 15 minutes at room temperature before using.

Step 4

Pickles ... Trim the ends off; then, cut the pickles into 1/2" thick rounds or pieces. Lay the pickles on a paper towel to dry out; about 5 minutes per side.

Step 5

Fish ... Remove the fish from the refrigerator; and, cut into 1" cubes. Then, lay them on a paper towel to dry; and, to take the chill off.

Step 6

Breading and Skewers ... First, 3 dredging stations - 1 corn starch, 2 wet (batter), 3 dry (panko). First make sure the pickles and fish are both dry. Dip the fish and pickles in the corn starch, VERY lightly coating them; and, make sure to shake off as much as possible. Then, into the batter; again, shake off any excess. Then, into the panko; making sure everything is well coated.

Step 7

Add the fish and pickles to your skewers. As mentioned; you can really skewer them any way you want. I find making mini skewers works best. They cook quickly and evenly; also, they are, easy to fry. I usually do 2 pieces of fish; and, 2-3 pickle slices - don't forget to leave a little room in between each piece. Once they are skewered; set them on a plate or rack to set for at least 5 minutes before you start frying. The reason is ... One, the corn starch helps the batter stick to the fish and pickles; and, two - letting them rest, just helps the coating stay on when frying.

Step 8

Frying ... I use vegetable oil for this; but, you can use any neutral oil. I like to use my deep cast iron pan or pot for this; but, a large stock pot for frying, or even a small counter top fryer works great. A thermometer is really helpful for this; as you want the temperature at 360-365 degrees to cook. Too low of temperature, and they will be soggy; too high, and they will burn rather than cook through. Once they are golden brown, they are done. Then, transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain; and, sprinkle with sea or kosher salt. TIP: I like to sacrifice 1 pickle or fish piece to test the temperature. Just place it on a tooth pic to test it. This way, you will know the oil is at the right temperature.

Step 9

Serve and ENJOY! ... Serve on a platter with the remoulade/tarter sauce in a small bowl; serve plenty of lemon wedges, and squeeze some over the skewers. Done. Unfortunately, this is really not a dish you can make ahead of time; but, it is definitely 'good party food.' Your guests will love it, trust me.