For the Fish:
- 1 ½ lbs 700 g white fish fillets (cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
For the Crispy Batter:
- 1 cup 125 g all-purpose flour
- ½ cup 60 g cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup 240 ml cold sparkling water or cold beer
- 1 large egg optional, for a richer batter