Long John Silver Copycat Batter

🐟 Long John Silver’s Copycat Batter

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tbsp cornstarch

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp paprika

¼ tsp black pepper

1 cup cold club soda (or cold water, but soda gives better crisp)

Optional for extra flavor: pinch of garlic powder or cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, onion powder, paprika, and pepper.

2. Slowly whisk in the cold club soda until smooth (batter should be slightly thick but still runny enough to coat).

3. Pat fish or chicken pieces dry. Dredge lightly in flour before dipping in batter (helps it stick).

4. Dip into the batter, let excess drip off, and carefully place in hot oil (350–365°F / 175–185°C).

5. Fry until golden brown and crispy (fish usually 3–4 minutes per side, chicken strips 5–6 minutes depending on thickness).

6. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

👉 Serve with malt vinegar, tartar sauce, or hushpuppies just like at Long John Silver’s.