Fishing is a popular recreational activity where we live, so folks are always looking for ways to prepare their catches. My husband ranks this as one of his favorite fish fry batters. —Jackie Hannahs, Cedar Springs, Michigan

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2/3 cup water
• 2/3 cup lemon juice, divided
• 2 pounds perch or walleye fillets, cut into serving-sized pieces
• Oil for frying
• Lemon wedges, optional

Directions

1. Combine 1 cup flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. In another bowl, combine egg, water and 1/3 cup lemon juice; stir into dry ingredients until smooth. Place remaining 1/3 cup lemon juice and remaining 1/2 cup flour in separate shallow bowls. Dip fillets in lemon juice, then flour, then coat with egg mixture.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 in. oil over medium-high heat. Fry fillets until golden brown and fish flakes easily with a fork, 2-3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. If desired, serve with lemon wedges.

Lime-Batter Fish: Can substitute lime juice for lemon juice.

Photo by Taste of Home