When I was young, I couldn't resist eating fish sticks by the handful, and now my grandchildren enjoy them just as much! If you're looking for a tasty and healthier alternative to fried fish sticks, this baked fish sticks recipe is perfect. With a crispy coating and tender white fish inside, these fish sticks are sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful meal that will satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of firm white fish, sliced into one-inch broad strips (e.g., cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Paprika, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of regular flour
- Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. In another bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they become foamy.
4. Spread the flour evenly on a separate dish.
5. Coat each fish strip in the following order: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour after dredging.
6. Arrange the coated fish strips on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don't touch each other.
7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top of the fish sticks turn golden brown and can be easily flaked with a fork. Flip the fish sticks over halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.
Tips:
- For an extra crunch, try incorporating crushed cornflakes into the breadcrumb mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free alternative, almond meal works well.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. Adding a hint of dill or old bay seasoning can enhance the flavor of your fish sticks.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix some Sriracha into your traditional tartar sauce for a spicy dip that complements the fish sticks perfectly.
- Keep a close eye on the fish sticks in the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning. Remember that every oven is different, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion:
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy delicious homemade baked fish sticks that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you're serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these fish sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of these baked fish sticks.