The Big Fish Sandwich from Burger King features a crispy, golden-battered fish fillet topped with fresh shredded lettuce and creamy tartar sauce, all nestled within a soft, toasted sesame seed bun for a satisfying combination of crunchy and smooth flavors.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Bun toaster or grill
- Spatula
- Food prep table
- Knife
- Shredder (for lettuce)
- Sauce dispenser or squeeze bottle
- Sandwich assembly tray
- Serving trays or wrappers
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (e.g., pollock or cod)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 sesame seed sandwich buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped capers
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
The key to achieving the Big Fish Sandwich's signature crispy texture lies in using a combination of panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal for the breading, which provides an excellent crunch when deep-fried to golden perfection. Ensure the white fish fillets, such as pollock or cod, are fresh and properly thawed to maintain a tender, flaky interior beneath the crispy coating. The tartar sauce's creamy tanginess comes from combining mayonnaise with sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, and fresh parsley, adding bright and savory notes to balance the sandwich. Shredded iceberg lettuce offers a refreshing crunch and should be prepared just before assembly to keep it crisp and vibrant. Your attempt at the Big Fish Sandwich from Burger King's copycat menu will shine by paying close attention to ingredient quality and balance to replicate that satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fill with vegetable oil.
- Set up food prep table and lay out all equipment and ingredients.
- Prepare tartar sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, and parsley. Mix well and refrigerate.
- Slice lettuce with knife and shred using shredder; set aside.
- Pat fish fillets dry and cut into bun-sized pieces if needed.
- Prepare breading stations:
- a. In first bowl, place flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper (mix).
- b. In second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- c. In third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
- Dredge fish fillets in seasoned flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat in panko-cornmeal mixture.
- Using tongs, carefully place breaded fish fillets into fryer basket.
- Lower basket into hot oil and fry fish for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove fish with tongs and drain on sandwich assembly tray lined with paper towels.
- Toast the sesame seed buns using bun toaster or grill.
- Assemble sandwich:
- a. Place bottom bun on assembly tray.
- b. Add golden fried fish fillet.
- c. Top with shredded lettuce.
- d. Squeeze tartar sauce over lettuce using sauce dispenser.
- e. Add top bun.
- Move assembled sandwich to serving tray or wrap for serving.
Substitution
The Big Fish Sandwich from Burger King can be easily recreated at home using pollock or cod for a similarly flaky texture. If you lack a deep fryer, pan-frying the battered fish fillets in a generous amount of oil can yield a crispy exterior. When shredded iceberg lettuce is unavailable, finely chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce offers a fresh, crunchy alternative. Your tartar sauce can be customized by adjusting the Dijon mustard or adding more lemon juice to suit your taste preferences. Sesame seed buns provide the classic sandwich experience, but any soft, toasted white or whole wheat buns work well for assembling the sandwich.
Tips
Ensure the vegetable oil reaches and maintains 350degF (175degC) for perfect fish crispiness without greasiness. Pat your fish fillets dry before breading to help the coating stick evenly and avoid sogginess. When frying, avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Use a sauce dispenser for precise tartar sauce application, keeping your sandwich balanced and flavorful.
Nutritions
The Big Fish Sandwich offers a balanced mix of protein from white fish fillets like pollock or cod, which are low in fat and calories yet rich in omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for heart health. The crispy breading made from panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, and all-purpose flour adds carbohydrates and fiber, while the creamy tartar sauce contributes fat and calories primarily from mayonnaise. Shredded iceberg lettuce provides a source of dietary fiber and vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin A. Your meal delivers a satisfying combination of textures and nutrients typical of a breaded fried fish sandwich, but keep in mind the frying process increases the calorie and fat content significantly.
Storage
Store leftover fried fish fillets in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain crispiness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep the tartar sauce separately in a sealed container and refrigerate to preserve freshness and flavor. Your buns, lettuce, and sauce should be stored in cool, dry conditions away from moisture to avoid sogginess and wilting.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the white fish fillets with fillets of tilapia or catfish for a slightly different flavor and texture. For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour and panko with almond flour and crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Consider baking the breaded fish at 400degF (200degC) for 15-20 minutes instead of deep frying to reduce oil content. Adding thinly sliced pickles or a dash of hot sauce to your tartar sauce will provide an extra tangy or spicy kick.
Allergies
The Big Fish Sandwich contains common allergens such as fish, eggs, and wheat (from the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs). The sesame seeds on the bun can also trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to sesame. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, consider discussing alternatives with your server to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Big Fish Sandwich menu from Burger King is popular for its crispy, golden-battered fish fillet paired with creamy tartar sauce and fresh lettuce, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Its unique flame-grilled taste differentiates it from other fast-food fish sandwiches, appealing to those craving a smoky, savory bite. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy a customizable, cost-effective alternative at home without sacrificing the iconic taste. Your homemade Big Fish Sandwich can replicate the quality and flavor that fans appreciate, making it a worth-trying recipe.