These crispy little fish nuggets are fun and easy dinner. I was starting to cook with the intention of making fish tacos. However, the old bay seasoning starting jumping out at me and the idea for a malt vinegar aioli struck me. Soon, I was on a different path. One that led to Brian requether round and Siena eating another type of fish!

Old Bay Fish Bites

ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs of Alaskan cod filet, cut into bite sized pieces

• 2 cups flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2 tbsp old bay seasoning

• 1/2 tbsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp dill

• 1 tsp celery salt

• 1 12oz, bottle pale ale beer

• 1/2 lemon

• canola oil

instructions

1. Fill a heavy bottomed pot with canola oil about 1/3 of the way full (2 inches high). Heat the oil until it reads 350 degrees F, over medium high heat.

2. In a medium size bowl combine the baking powder, flour, old bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and celery salt.

3. Then add the beer and mix until there are no lumps. The consistency should remind you of pancake batter.

4. Prepare the cod by cutting into cube like pieces or strips if you prefer. Dredge in the batter, turn to coat well on all sides. Then placing in the hot oil carefully.

5. Fry until the fish turns golden brown on each side. Turning with tongs once, about 5 minutes. Do not crowd the pan, rather work in batches. Once the cod is fried set aside on a paper towel lined plate.

6. When finished squeeze the half of lemon over the fish bites and serve with tartar sauce, or shaved brussels with malt vinegar aioli !

RECIPE NOTES: Be VERY careful and mindful when working with hot oil. Try to use longer tongs and add to the pan gently to avoid splashing.