Homemade Fish Sticks

 Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), cut into 1-inch wide strips
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Prepare the Breading Station:

    • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
    • In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
    • In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Bread the Fish:

    • Take a fish strip and coat it with flour, shaking off any excess.
    • Dip the floured fish into the egg mixture, ensuring it's well coated.
    • Roll the fish in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the fish to adhere.
    • Place the breaded fish strip on the prepared baking rack.
  4. Repeat for All Fish Strips:

    • Repeat the breading process for all of the fish strips, placing them on the baking rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
  5. Bake the Fish Sticks:

    • Lightly spray the tops of the fish sticks with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of olive oil. This helps them become crispy during baking.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crisp.
  6. Serve:

    • Remove the homemade fish sticks from the oven.
    • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, ketchup, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Enjoy your homemade fish sticks as a tasty and healthier alternative to the frozen store-bought versions. They're perfect as a snack or a main course for both kids and adults alike.