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What Is the Best Fish Sandwich Fast Food?

What Is the Best Fish Sandwich Fast Food?

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Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Lauren Beck

During Lent, fast food chains often add fish sandwiches to their menus alongside burgers and fries. But which chain offers the best fish sandwich?

In this article, I’ll share my experience with the top 15 fast-food fish sandwiches, reveal the key factors that make a good fish sandwich, and even provide tips for making one at home.

What Is the Best Fish Sandwich Fast Food?

Here are the 15 Best Fast Food Fish Sandwiches

  1. McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish: A classic fast food fish sandwich that has existed since 1962.
  2. Arby’s Crispy Fish: A beer-battered fish sandwich served with tartar sauce and lettuce.
  3. Wendy’s Wild Caught Alaskan Fish Sandwich: Made with a North Pacific Cod fillet, panko breading, and topped with dill tartar sauce.
  4. Burger King Big Fish Sandwich: A flame-grilled fish sandwich served with tartar sauce and lettuce.
  5. Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich: A crispy fish fillet with American cheese and tartar sauce.
  6. Sonic’s Fish Sandwich: A panko-crusted fish fillet with tartar sauce and pickles on a brioche bun.
  7. Captain D’s Deluxe Fish Sandwich: A fried fish fillet topped with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
  8. Long John Silver’s Big Catch Sandwich: A crispy fish fillet with lettuce and tartar sauce.
  9. Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s Beer-Battered Fish Sandwich: A beer-battered fish fillet served with tartar sauce and lettuce.
  10. Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich: A fish fillet with lettuce and tartar sauce on a sesame seed bun.
  11. Popeyes Cajun Flounder Sandwich: A spicy, battered flounder fillet with pickles and tartar sauce on a toasted bun.
  12. Checkers and Rally’s Crispy Fish Sandwich: A crispy fish fillet with tartar sauce and lettuce.
  13. Del Taco Beer Battered Fish Taco: A beer-battered fish fillet in a soft tortilla with cabbage and secret sauce.
  14. Zaxby’s Cajun Club Sandwich: A fried fish fillet with bacon, lettuce, and spicy mayo.
  15. Jersey Mike’s Sub in a Tub: A lettuce-wrapped sub with grilled or fried fish, cheese, and tartar sauce.

What Makes a Good Fish Sandwich?

A good fish sandwich should have several key components:

  • Fresh fish: The fish should be fresh, preferably wild-caught, and not frozen.
  • Good batter: The batter should be crispy and flavorful but not overpowering.
  • Tartar sauce: A good fish sandwich needs a good tartar sauce. It should be tangy, creamy, and have some texture.
  • Quality bun: The bun should be soft and fresh but sturdy enough to hold the sandwich together.

Why Do So Many Fast Food Restaurants Serve Fish Sandwiches?

two Arby's Crispy Fish Sandwich

Fast food restaurants serve fish sandwiches during the Lenten season, a time of fasting and sacrifice for Christians.

But fish sandwiches have become popular year-round due to their perceived health benefits and versatility.

They are often seen as a lighter, healthier option compared to burgers and chicken sandwiches.

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Does Popeyes Have a Spicy Fish Sandwich?

Yes, Popeyes has a Cajun Flounder Sandwich that is spicy and battered with their signature Cajun seasoning.

Does Burger King Still Have the Whaler?

No, Burger King discontinued the Whaler Fish sandwich in 2011.

Is Wendy’s Fish Sandwich Real Fish?

Yes, Wendy’s uses North Pacific Cod fillets for their fish sandwich.

Does Sonic Have a Fish Sandwich?

Sonic, a fast food chain primarily known for its burgers and hot dogs, does not have a fish sandwich on its regular menu.

However, some locations may offer limited-time specials or regional menu items that include a fish sandwich.

How To Make a Fish Sandwich?

If you’re interested in making your own fish sandwich at home [1], here’s a simple recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

  • 2 fillets of firm white fish (such as cod or halibut)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beer
  • 1 egg
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Tartar sauce
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Whisk in the beer and egg until the batter is smooth.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  4. Dip each fish fillet in the batter and shake off the excess.
  5. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
  6. Remove the fish from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  7. Toast the hamburger buns and spread tartar sauce on the bottom half.
  8. Top with lettuce, tomato, and fried fish.
  9. Serve hot, and enjoy!

What Fish Is Best for a Sandwich?

The best fish for a sandwich are cod, haddock, pollock, tilapia, halibut, mahi-mahi, and salmon.

They each have unique flavors and textures to suit different preferences. Go for what you like and ensure it’s fresh and sustainably sourced!

Conclusion

With a multitude of fast-food fish sandwiches to choose from, there’s something for everyone’s taste. McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish remains a classic favorite, while Popeyes offers a fiery, flavorful option.

Each restaurant puts its unique twist on this beloved seafood delight. However, the best fish sandwich is a matter of personal preference. Some may savor the simplicity of a classic fish fillet with tartar sauce, while others crave a zesty, spicy kick.

Indulge in the variety of fast-food fish sandwiches to find your perfect match. Embrace the journey of taste exploration and savor the satisfaction of discovering your go-to fishy delight!

Reference:

  1. https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1022111-fried-fish-sandwich
Lauren Beck
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