Fried salted fish in flour. 

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salted Fish

• Soak the salted fish in warm water for about 15 minutes to reduce some of the excess salt. Depending on how salty your fish is, you can soak it for longer (up to 30 minutes) to help mellow the flavor.
• After soaking, pat the fish dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is important because moisture on the surface can cause the flour to clump or make the coating soggy.
• Cut the salted fish into smaller pieces if necessary, making them easier to fry and serve.

2. Prepare the Flour Coating

• In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the all-purpose flour, rice flour, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix the ingredients together until well combined. The rice flour helps give the fish a crunchier texture, but you can use all-purpose flour if you prefer.
• Taste the flour mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Since the salted fish is already salty, be cautious when adding additional salt to the flour mix. A light sprinkle should be sufficient.

3. Coat the Salted Fish

• Take each piece of salted fish and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat each side evenly. Gently shake off any excess flour to ensure a thin, even coating. The goal is to have a light, crispy layer that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate fish.

4. Fry the Fish

• Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan so that the fish pieces are partially submerged.
• Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the coated fish pieces to the pan, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the fish in batches if necessary.
• Fry the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side until the coating is golden brown and crispy. The fish should cook quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• When done, remove the fried fish from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Once all the fish is fried, transfer it to a serving platter. You can garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or scallions for added freshness and color.
• Serve the fried salted fish in flour with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or as a side dish to complement your favorite main course. For extra flavor, offer dipping sauces like soy sauce, chili sauce, or a tangy lime dipping sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Salted Fish in Flour

1. Adjust the Saltiness: Since salted fish is already quite salty, be sure to soak it to reduce the salt level. Taste the fish and adjust the seasoning as necessary, but avoid over-salting.
2. Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the fish quickly, creating a crispy outer layer without making the fish too greasy. If the oil is too cool, the coating will absorb excess oil and become soggy.
3. Crispier Coating: If you want an even crispier coating, consider double-dipping the fish. First, dip the fish in the flour mixture, then in a thin layer of egg wash, and coat it again in the flour mixture before frying.
4. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For the best results, use a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan for frying. This helps retain heat and ensures even cooking.
5. Be Mindful of Oil: If frying in batches, make sure the oil temperature stays consistent between each batch. If necessary, let the oil return to temperature before adding the next round of fish.

Variations and Serving Ideas

• Spicy Fried Salted Fish: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick. Serve with a side of spicy sambal or hot sauce.
• Garlic-Infused Fish: For extra flavor, sauté some garlic in the oil before frying the fish. The oil will infuse the garlic flavor, making it aromatic and delicious.
• Sweet and Savory: For a sweet twist, drizzle the fried salted fish with a little honey or a sweet soy sauce glaze after frying. The sweetness balances the saltiness of the fish and creates a beautiful flavor contrast.
• Serve with Pickled Vegetables: Fried salted fish pairs perfectly with tangy, crunchy pickled vegetables like acar (Indonesian pickled vegetables), which helps cut through the richness of the fish.

Why You Should Try Fried Salted Fish in Flour

Fried salted fish in flour is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of both crispy textures and bold, salty flavors. The salted fish provides that satisfying umami punch, while the crispy, light flour coating adds a delicious crunch that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side dish, a flavorful snack, or an accompaniment to a hearty meal, this dish has it all.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a savory treat that delivers both comfort and indulgence. It’s a dish that highlights the unique flavors of salted fish and the versatility of a crispy flour coating, making it a perfect addition to your cooking repertoire.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simple yet satisfying goodness of fried salted fish in flour. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!