The Cod Filet Sandwich from Culver's features a tender, flaky cod filet lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served on a toasted bun with crisp lettuce and creamy tartar sauce, delivering a satisfying blend of fresh, crunchy, and savory flavors.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Bun toaster or grill
- Prep table/counter
- Spreader or spoon (for tartar sauce)
- Food-safe gloves
- Sheet pan or tray (for assembly)
- Knife (for lettuce prep)
- Storage containers (for ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1 cod filet (about 4 oz/115g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup cold water (or beer)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 hamburger bun
- 1–2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 tablespoons tartar sauce
Ensure your cod filet is fresh and properly thawed if frozen, as this affects the tenderness and flakiness of the sandwich. Use cold water or beer to create a light, crispy batter by mixing it with all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Vegetable oil should be heated to the right frying temperature (around 350degF/175degC) for optimal golden coloring and crispiness. Fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce adds a necessary crunch, and spreading tartar sauce evenly enhances the sandwich's savory and creamy balance. Your homemade Cod Filet Sandwich from Culver's copycat menu will deliver the same satisfying blend of flavors and textures found in the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse cod filet and pat dry.
- Prepare batter: whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Add cold water (or beer) to dry ingredients; mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Dredge cod filet lightly in flour, shake off excess.
- Dip cod filet in batter, ensuring full coverage.
- Carefully lower battered cod filet into hot oil using tongs.
- Fry for 4–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove cod filet and drain on a sheet pan lined with paper towels.
- Toast bun on bun toaster or grill until golden.
- Wash and dry lettuce leaves, then slice or tear to fit bun.
- Spread tartar sauce on the top or bottom side of bun with spoon/spreader.
- Place lettuce on bottom bun.
- Place fried cod filet on top of lettuce.
- Top with remaining bun half.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Cod Filet Sandwich from Culver's copycat menu can be adapted by substituting cod with other white fish like haddock or pollock, which provide a similar flaky texture. If you don't have a deep fryer, use a heavy skillet with enough oil to deep-fry the filet, monitoring the temperature closely to achieve a crispy coating. Your batter consistency may need adjusting depending on whether you use cold water or beer, as beer tends to make the batter lighter and airier. For a healthier option, consider baking the breaded filet in an oven at 425degF until golden and cooked through, though the texture will differ slightly. Make sure to toast your bun properly to prevent sogginess from the tartar sauce and keep the sandwich components fresh for the best flavor experience.
Tips
Ensure the vegetable oil reaches a consistent 350degF (175degC) before frying to achieve a crispy, golden batter without absorbing excess oil. Lightly dredging the cod filet in flour before battering prevents the batter from slipping off during frying. Patting the cod dry removes excess moisture, helping the batter adhere better and produce a crisp crust. Your sandwich will benefit from toasting the bun just before assembly to add crunch and prevent sogginess from the tartar sauce.
Nutritions
The Cod Filet Sandwich provides approximately 400-450 calories, primarily from the fried cod filet and tartar sauce. This sandwich delivers around 20 grams of protein from the cod, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. Your intake of fats is moderate, coming from the frying oil and creamy tartar sauce, contributing essential fatty acids and flavor. The inclusion of iceberg lettuce adds minimal calories but provides a small boost of dietary fiber and vitamins.
Storage
Store your leftover cod filet separately in an airtight container to maintain its crispy texture, refrigerating it for up to 2 days. Keep the toasted bun, lettuce, and tartar sauce in separate containers to prevent sogginess and preserve freshness. When ready to eat, reheat the cod filet in an oven or air fryer for best results, then assemble the sandwich fresh.
Variation or Alternatives
To customize your Cod Filet Sandwich, try substituting beer with sparkling water in the batter for a lighter, crispier coating that enhances texture without altering flavor. Consider grilling the cod filet instead of frying to reduce oil content while preserving its flaky tenderness. Swap iceberg lettuce for kale or arugula to introduce a peppery bite and added nutrients that balance the sandwich's richness. Your choice to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked cod can brighten the savory profile and elevate overall freshness.
Allergies
The Cod Filet Sandwich contains common allergens such as fish (cod) and wheat (all-purpose flour and bun), which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The tartar sauce often contains eggs and sometimes dairy, so checking the specific ingredients is important if you have allergies to these components. Your risk of cross-contact with other allergens during preparation should also be considered if you have severe food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Customers love the Cod Filet Sandwich from Culver's for its fresh, flaky cod fillet, perfectly fried to a golden crisp, paired with a soft, buttered bun and tangy tartar sauce. The balanced combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying choice that appeals to seafood lovers seeking a classic yet flavorful meal. Replicating this menu item at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood with customized seasoning and freshness. Crafting the copycat version offers a rewarding culinary challenge that results in a delicious, cost-effective alternative to dining out.