My Perfect Fish Batter

Kayelle's Note:

I've used dozens of recipes over the years, searching for the "perfect fish batter" for fried fish. The many variations of "beer batter" always fell short for me (kinda strange taste, but then, I don't like beer). Actual Tempura batter just didn't have quite the substance I wanted either, although it was closer to what I wanted. I can't even eat some of the gummy, nasty battered fish I've been served and have made. This is honestly the best fish I've ever eaten, bar none, and that includes everyplace on the Pacific coast I've paid to eat. This is light, puffy, delicate and sticks to the fish. The fish must be very cold and very dry. This will batter about 1 1/3 lbs of fish fillets. It's wonderful for shrimp too.

• Total Time: 13 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 3 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 3

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dill weed (optional)
• 3/4 cup ice water
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions:

1. Use a med. bowl, and with a wire whisk, whisk dry ingredients to be sure they are well blended. Have a large skillet ready with and inch of veg. oil nearly smoking hot.
2. Squeeze half a juicy lemon into a measuring cup, and fill to the 3/4 line with ICE cold water. Mix quickly into the dry ingredients, till only small lumps remain. It does not need to be smooth. With tongs, drag each piece of fish through the batter till well coated on each side. Lay the piece in the hot oil, and continue.
3. Do not crowd the pieces. You can do this in batches, keeping cooked fish on a rack in a warm oven. It will take a very short time, depending on the thickness of the fish. Do not overcook. Serve with lemon slices.