Fish Fingers with Tomato Ketchup

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Fish (5 minutes)

   • Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy coating.
   • Cut the fillets into uniform strips, about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick.
2. 2

   Marinate the Fish (15 minutes)

   • In a medium bowl, place the fish strips.
   • Add the ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, black pepper, and 0.75 tsp of salt.
   • Gently toss with your hands or a spoon until all the fish pieces are evenly coated.
   • Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. 3

   Set Up Breading Station (3 minutes)

   • Arrange three wide, shallow dishes or plates.
   • In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour and the remaining 0.25 tsp of salt.
   • In the second dish, crack the eggs and beat them lightly with a fork.
   • In the third dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
4. 4

   Coat the Fish Fingers (7 minutes)

   • Take one marinated fish strip at a time, letting any excess marinade drip off.
   • First, dredge it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated, then shake off the excess.
   • Next, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip back into the dish.
   • Finally, press the fish strip firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, covering all sides completely. Place the coated finger on a clean plate.
5. 5

   Shallow Fry the Fish Fingers (10 minutes)

   • Pour oil into a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to a depth of about half an inch. Heat over medium-high heat.
   • To check if the oil is ready, drop a breadcrumb into it. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is at the right temperature.
   • Carefully place the coated fish fingers in the hot oil in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in 2-3 batches.
   • Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are a deep golden brown and crispy.
   • The fish should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
6. 6

   Drain and Serve (2 minutes)

   • Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried fish fingers from the pan.
   • Place them on a wire rack to drain. This allows air to circulate and keeps the bottom crispy.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like tartar sauce, mint chutney, or tomato ketchup.