The Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich from Wendy's features a flaky, tender cod fillet coated in a crispy golden batter, layered with fresh shredded lettuce and creamy tartar sauce, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun for a deliciously satisfying seafood bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Food thermometer
- Bun toaster or grill
- Knife
- Spatula
- Assembly tray or station
- Food prep gloves
Ingredients
- 1 cod fillet (4-6 oz)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cold club soda
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons tartar sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 sandwich bun (soft, untoasted)
- Butter (for toasting bun)
Ensure the cod fillet is completely thawed and patted dry before coating to achieve the perfect crispy batter with a golden finish. Use cold club soda in the batter mixture for a light and airy texture that enhances the fillet's tenderness. Maintain vegetable oil temperature around 350degF using a food thermometer to prevent sogginess or overcooking during frying. Lightly buttering and toasting the bun adds a subtle richness and prevents it from becoming soggy from the tartar sauce and shredded lettuce. Your Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich from Wendy's copycat menu will deliver a crispy, flavorful seafood experience closely matching the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat cod fillet dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Gradually whisk in cold club soda until batter is smooth.
- Dip cod fillet into batter, coating evenly.
- Carefully lower fillet into hot oil using tongs.
- Fry 4-6 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove fillet and drain on paper towels.
- Butter sandwich bun and toast on a bun toaster or hot grill until golden.
- Spread tartar sauce on bottom half of toasted bun.
- Place fried cod fillet on the bun.
- Top with shredded lettuce.
- Cap sandwich with the top half of the bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich from Wendy's copycat menu relies on a delicate balance of a crispy, golden batter and tender fish to mimic the original's taste and texture. If fresh cod fillet is not available, you can substitute with similar white fish such as haddock or pollock, which maintain a flaky texture after frying. When frying, maintaining the oil temperature around 350degF ensures a crispy exterior without overcooking the fish inside, so use a food thermometer to monitor accurately. Your tartar sauce can be customized by adding capers or pickles for a tangier flavor, enhancing the sandwich's freshness alongside shredded lettuce. For the perfect bun, lightly butter and toast it on a grill or bun toaster to prevent sogginess and add a subtle crunch to each bite.
Tips
Ensure the cod fillet is thoroughly dried before battering to help the batter adhere better and create a crispier crust. Maintain the oil temperature consistently at 350degF (175degC) to avoid greasy, undercooked fish or burnt batter. Use a food thermometer to confirm the fillet reaches an internal temperature of 145degF (63degC) for safe consumption. When assembling, toast the buttered bun just before serving to keep your sandwich warm but prevent sogginess from the tartar sauce and moisture.
Nutritions
The Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich provides a balanced source of protein, with the cod fillet delivering approximately 20-25 grams per serving, essential for muscle repair and growth. The batter adds carbohydrates and fats due to the combination of flour, cornstarch, and vegetable oil used in frying, contributing to the sandwich's calorie content. Fresh shredded lettuce offers dietary fiber and vitamins like vitamin A and K, enhancing nutrient diversity. Your meal also includes tartar sauce, which provides fats and flavor but increases the overall calorie and sodium content.
Storage
Store your Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich wrapped in wax paper or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Refrigerate at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 24 hours to maintain optimal taste and texture. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to keep the batter crispy without sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap cod fillet for halibut or haddock to offer different textures and flavors. Replace cold club soda with cold beer to enhance the batter's crispiness and add a subtle yeast flavor. Incorporate chopped pickles or capers into the tartar sauce for an extra tangy kick that complements the fried fish. Use a brioche bun or a pretzel bun instead of a standard sandwich bun for a richer, more indulgent sandwich experience tailored to your taste.
Allergies
The Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich contains several common allergens, including fish from the cod fillet and gluten from the all-purpose flour and sandwich bun. The tartar sauce may also include eggs and dairy, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Your best option is to carefully check ingredient labels and consult with the restaurant if you have specific food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Premium Cod Fillet Sandwich at Wendy's is celebrated for its crispy, flaky cod fillet perfectly complemented by a soft, toasted bun and tangy tartar sauce, delivering a balanced and satisfying seafood experience. You will appreciate the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the unique seasoning that sets it apart from typical fish sandwiches. Creating a copycat version allows you to customize the flavors and enjoy this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your home. Replicating this menu item offers a cost-effective way to savor Wendy's popular seafood option without compromising on taste or texture.