How to Fry Sand Dabs

Fry sand dabs in a frying pan for a crispy texture.

Sand dabs are small fish that are found in the Pacific Ocean. The fish, which are in the same family as flounder, are typically cut into thin fillets which are ideal for frying. When prepared properly, sand dabs feature a golden brown, crispy coasting and moist, flaky flesh. Serve the fried fish as a main course alongside rice or potatoes, steamed or roasted vegetables, and a fresh garden salad. The fish is versatile enough to serve as a casual weekday supper or a special occasion dinner.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow, non-stick frying pan
• 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
• 2 1/2 cups white, all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon
• 6 sand dab fillets
• Spatula
• Paper towel
• Plate
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Pour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a shallow, non-stick frying pan. Warm the oil over medium-high heat.

2. Pour 2 1/2 cups white, all-purpose flour and 1 cup cornmeal into a large mixing bowl. Add salt and ground black pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients with a spoon.

3. Dredge six sand dab fillets in the flour and cornmeal mixture, and add the fish to the hot oil one-by-one.

4. Fry the sand dabs over medium heat for one minute, or until they are golden brown. Turn the fish fillets over using a spatula and fry them on the opposite side for another minute.

5. Remove the sand dabs from the hot oil and allow them to drain on a paper towel-covered plate. Garnish the fried fish fillets with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and serve them immediately.

References

• Monterey Bay Aquarium: Sand Dabs