Sure, here’s a rephrased version of your article, in a more conversational tone:
Baked Fish Sticks: A Family Favorite Recipe
Who doesn’t love a good fish stick? Especially when they’re oven-baked to perfection, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Plus, they’re so flavorful, your whole family will be asking for more!
As a parent of four, I’m always thinking about meals that the kids will actually eat. And let me tell you, these fish sticks are a surefire hit! They join the ranks of our other beloved meals, like pepperoni rolls, sloppy joes, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
The best part about these baked fish sticks? They’re not only a joy to eat, but also to make. Get your kids involved in the process and they’ll be beaming with pride once they see (and taste) the final product. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish!
What You’ll Need
Making homemade fish sticks is a breeze, and you only need a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cod: Slice it into strips.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the fish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works great for coating the cod.
- Eggs: These help the coating stick to the fish.
- Panko: These breadcrumbs give the fish sticks that perfect crispy crust.
- Parmesan: Mix it with the breadcrumbs for a tasty coating.
- Seasonings: We’re using Old Bay seasoning and garlic powder for some extra flavor.
How to Make Them
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the cod strips with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for the flour, one for the whisked eggs and salt, and one for the Panko, Parmesan, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Cod: Dip each strip first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally in the Panko mixture.
- Bake: Arrange the coated fish sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips to make sure your fish sticks turn out perfect every time:
- Size Matters: Try to cut the cod strips to the same size for even cooking.
- Don’t Skimp on the Breading: A generous coating ensures a crispy crust.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have cod, any white fish will do. You could try Haddock or Tilapia!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
You can also freeze them! Just place the cooled fish sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or ziploc bag and they’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Fish sticks are perfect as an after-school snack, lunch, or dinner. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes. Some of our favorites include tartar sauce, air-fried French fries, homemade coleslaw, and roasted garlic asparagus.
Give this recipe a try, and I bet it’ll become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!