Crispy Walleye Sandwich

Ingredients

• 2 walleye fillets (200g each) 2 walleye fillets (200g each)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 hamburger buns 2 hamburger buns
• Lettuce leaves Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes Sliced tomatoes

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Dip each walleye fillet into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. 3.
   Coat the fillets in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the batter.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Fry the coated walleye fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a grill until lightly golden.
8. 8.
   Spread tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
9. 9.
   Place a walleye fillet on top of the tartar sauce.
10. 10.
    Top with lettuce leaves and sliced tomatoes.
11. 11.
    Cover with the top half of the bun.
12. 12.
    Serve the Crispy Walleye Sandwich immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walleye fillets — Ensure the fillets are fresh and free from any fishy odor. Pat them dry before dipping in buttermilk and coating with the batter for better adherence.
• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, for frying to achieve a crispy texture.
• Hamburger buns — Opt for fresh buns with a sturdy texture that can hold the crispy walleye fillet and toppings without becoming soggy.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the walleye fillets in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a subtle heat.
• Customize the tartar sauce by adding chopped pickles, capers, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of coleslaw or french fries for a complete meal.
• If walleye is not available, you can substitute it with other white fish like cod or haddock.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Walleye Sandwich with a side of coleslaw and a pickle spear for a classic American meal. It pairs well with a cold glass of lemonade or an ice-cold beer.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place the assembled sandwich on a wooden cutting board or a checkered paper, and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley. Serve it open-faced to showcase the crispy walleye fillet and colorful toppings.