Best Long John Silver’s Batter

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If you have ever bitten into a piece of Long John Silver’s fish and wondered how that batter gets so light, crispy, and perfectly golden, this recipe is for you. This homemade version captures that signature crunch with a delicate coating that clings beautifully to fish and seafood without feeling heavy.

What makes this batter special is its balance. It fries up airy and crisp on the outside while staying tender inside, making it ideal for classic fish fillets, shrimp, or even onion rings. It is simple to mix, easy to work with, and delivers that familiar fast food flavor straight from your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Best Long John Silver’s Batter

This batter is all about texture and flavor without complicated steps. It creates a thin, shatteringly crisp crust that does not overpower the fish. The ingredients are pantry friendly, the process is quick, and the results feel nostalgic and satisfying every single time.

What Makes Long John Silver’s Batter So Crispy?

The secret lies in a light flour mixture combined with carbonation. This creates tiny air pockets in the batter that expand when they hit hot oil, giving you that iconic crunch and delicate finish.

Ingredients for the Best Long John Silver’s Batter

This batter comes together with a handful of simple ingredients that each play an important role in texture and taste. When combined correctly, they form a smooth, pourable mixture that coats evenly and fries to perfection.

• All-purpose flour gives the batter structure and forms the base of the coating.
• Cornstarch helps create an extra light and crisp texture once fried.
• Baking powder adds lift and contributes to the airy crunch.
• Salt enhances flavor and keeps the batter from tasting flat.
• Sugar adds a subtle balance and helps with browning.
• Cold club soda provides carbonation that makes the batter light and bubbly.

How To Make the Best Long John Silver’s Batter

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly combined.

Step 2: Add the Club Soda

Slowly pour in the cold club soda while whisking gently. Mix just until the batter is smooth and lump free. Do not overmix, as this can reduce crispiness.

Step 3: Coat the Fish

Pat your fish fillets dry, then dip them into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off before frying.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Carefully place the battered fish into hot oil and fry until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain briefly before serving.

Serving and Storing the Best Long John Silver’s Batter

This batter is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the fryer. One batch comfortably coats enough fish to serve about four people. If needed, you can mix the batter shortly before frying, but it should not be stored for long periods as the carbonation will fade.

What to Serve With Best Long John Silver’s Batter

Classic French Fries

Crispy fries are the most familiar pairing and complete the classic fish and chips experience.

Coleslaw

A cool, creamy slaw adds contrast and freshness to the crunchy fish.

Hush Puppies

These golden cornmeal bites fit right in with a seafood platter.

Tartar Sauce

The tangy creaminess of tartar sauce enhances the flavor of the battered fish.

Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens each bite and balances the richness.

Want More Batter and Frying Ideas?

If you enjoy crispy, comforting favorites like this batter, you might also love exploring other hearty dishes such as Creamy Beef and Shells, One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta, Best Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings, and Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders. Each one brings bold flavor and satisfying textures that fit perfectly into a comfort food rotation.

Save This Recipe For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest boards so you can come back to it whenever a fried fish craving hits.

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own, so feel free to share your results or questions in the comments. For more daily recipe inspiration, explore Mia Recipes on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/amarieg309/ and discover new favorites to try next.

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