Long John Silver’s batter is known for its light and crispy texture, perfect for coating seafood and making delicious fried dishes. Here’s a recipe to recreate Long John Silver’s batter at home:
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of flavor)
1 cup cold water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and paprika if using. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Add Cold Water:
a. Gradually pour the cold water into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Adjust the Consistency:
a. You can adjust the thickness of the batter by adding more water if you want a thinner coating or more flour if you prefer a thicker coating. The batter should be thick enough to stick to the seafood or food you’re frying.
- Use the Batter:
a. Dip your seafood, vegetables, or other items into the batter to coat them evenly before frying. Make sure to shake off any excess batter to avoid a thick, doughy coating.
- Fry Your Food:
a. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
b. Carefully place the battered items into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy. The exact frying time will depend on the thickness and type of food you’re frying.
c. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried items from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
a. Serve your homemade Long John Silver’s-style fried seafood or other dishes while they are hot and crispy.
This batter recipe can be used for making classic fried seafood like fish, shrimp, or chicken, as well as for frying vegetables or other food items. It’s a versatile batter that provides that signature crispy texture you love from Long John Silver’s. Enjoy your homemade fried delights!