Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   • Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the batter adheres properly to the fish.
   • Season the fish lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Make the Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, corn starch, baking powder, salt, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
   • In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the cold water. Stir to combine.
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter—thick enough to coat the fish, but not too runny.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature, or test it by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and turns golden brown within a minute, the oil is ready.
4. Fry the Fish:
   • Dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off before carefully placing it into the hot oil.
   • Fry the fish in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fish from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the fish immediately with your favorite sides—fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad are all great choices.
   • For an authentic touch, pair it with tartar sauce or malt vinegar.

Tips for the Perfect Batter

• Cold Water: Using cold water in the batter helps create a light, crispy coating. Some even suggest adding ice cubes to the water to keep it as cold as possible.
• Resting Time: Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes before using it. This helps the ingredients to meld together and results in a better texture.
• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the batter will burn before the fish is cooked through. If it’s too cold, the fish will absorb too much oil and become greasy.