Long John Silver’s Style Batter 

This homemade version of Long John Silver’s batter recreates the signature light, crispy coating Famous for seafood and chicken plank platters. It delivers a satisfyingly airy crunch using pantry staples like all‑purpose flour, cornstarch, club soda, and seasonings. The batter foams slightly after mixing, thanks to carbonation and leaveners, resulting in a delicate crisp crust that clings to fish, chicken, or vegetables when deep‑fried. A quick mix-up and fry is all it takes to get that nostalgic, golden-brown finish—no restaurant mix required.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (≈ 65 g) all‑purpose flour
  
  

• ¼ cup (≈ 35 g) cornstarch
  
  

• 2 tsp granulated sugar
  
  

• 2 tsp salt (or seasoned salt)
  
  

• ½ tsp baking powder
  
  

• ½ tsp baking soda
  
  

• ½ tsp paprika
  
  

• ½ tsp onion powder (or onion salt)
  
  

• ¼ tsp ground black pepper or white pepper
  
  

• 1 cup cold club soda (or carbonated water)
  
  

• Oil for deep frying (canola or vegetable oil)
  (Scales to your batch size; copycat articles use proportions similarly)
  
  

Directions

1. Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350 °F (175 °C). Use a thermometer or test with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle and rise quickly
   
   

2. In a bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until evenly combined.
   
   

3. Just before frying, slowly stir in the cold club soda until a bubbly, smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.
   
   

4. Dip fish fillets, chicken strips, shrimp, or vegetables into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
   
   

5. Carefully place battered items into the hot oil. If desired, perform a “dip‑and‑lift” technique by lowering and lifting each piece a couple times so the batter sets properly and crispies form.
   
   

6. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning as needed, until golden and floating.
   
   

7. Remove to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate to drain. Sprinkle lightly with salt if desired. Serve immediately.
   
   

Nutrients (approximate per serving, for fish preparation)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: ~19 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~38 g
  
  

• Protein: ~31 g
  
  

• Sodium: ~1150 mg (includes batter and salting)
  
  

• Sugar: ~1 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: ~15 g