Have you ever wondered if it is possible to microwave frozen fish sticks? Crunchy breading and soft fish fillet inside, fish sticks are a wholesome snack that everyone enjoy.
Whether it is leftover dinner from last night or store-bought frozen fish sticks, they can be easily reheated or cooked in many different cooking method. However, the quickest and easiest way to heat up fish sticks is using a microwave.
Can you microwave fish sticks? Yes, you can microwave fish sticks. In fact, it takes just a few minutes to heat up fish sticks and still maintain a crunchy texture with a microwave crisper pan.
Microwave is convenient kitchen tool to prepare meals in a short length of time. In addition, it can defrost, reheat, or cook any food pretty easily and straightforward.
If you have been questioning about how to microwave fried fish sticks, we are going to answer frequently asked questions to solve all your concerns. It is possible to microwave fish sticks without affecting texture and taste, and this article demonstrates how it is possible.
Can you cook fish sticks in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook fish sticks in the microwave. In fact, it is the quickest and most efficient method that does not require oil for frying.
It is well known that the outer shell of any fried foods tend to become soggy or mushy when microwaved. As a result, we highly recommend using a microwave crisper pan.
This tool preheats a browning tray that makes the food crispy and golden brown through direct contact with the outer surfaces.
Preheated the crisper tray for 5 minutes, then select high heat and microwave the frozen fish sticks for 1 minute, flip on the other side and continue heating until the internal temperature reaches 74℃ or 165℉.
Are frozen fish sticks already cooked?
Yes, fish sticks are precooked and flash frozen. Depend on the manufacture, it may be partially cooked, and may require additional cooking time to fully heat before safety consuming.
The packaging and instructions will say if the frozen fish sticks are fully or partially cooked. No matter how they are prepared prior to freezing, it is best practice to thoroughly heat fish sticks to avoid any potential food borne complications.
Is it safe to microwave frozen fish sticks?
Yes, it is safe to microwave frozen fish sticks. As long as the internal temperature of the frozen fish sticks reaches 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent any unwanted harmful food poisoning from consuming undercooked foods.
The process of microwaving frozen fish sticks are completely safe. Matter of fact, it does not alter the taste nor texture when done properly on a browning tray.
To microwave frozen fish sticks safely, lay the frozen fish sticks in a single layer. Do not overcrowd or place the fish sticks on top of each other as this will generate steam that turns the fish sticks mushy and gummy.
On a 1000 wattage microwave, select medium power and nuke for 1 minute, turn all the pieces over and continue microwaving for another minute. Repeat the process until the fish sticks turn golden brown, steam forms and they are fully cooked all the way through.
Can you reheat fish fingers in microwave?
Yes, you can reheat fish fingers in microwave. Even though it is a quick, easy and safe way to heat food in the microwave, follow the recommended tips to reheat fish fingers in microwave to get the best result.
It’s well known that fish fingers are best when reheated in the oven or air fryer, however consider using a microwave crisper pan to get crispy and crunchy edges.
Check out How to Reheat Scallops!
How to cook fish sticks in microwave
If you do not have access to oven or air fryer, microwave is easy and safe way to cook fish sticks quickly.
Remember that fish sticks are already cooked and only need to heat up to 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
Transfer 4 to 8 pieces of frozen fish sticks onto a microwave-safe plate. Arrange the pieces around the outside edge of the plate since it cooks faster compared to the center of the plate.
Microwave on high for 1 minute, then flip and rotate the fish sticks before continuing to cook for another 30 to 60 seconds.
For crunchy edges, use a preheated microwave crisper pan instead of the microwave-safe plate.
Check the internal temperature of the fish sticks, and once they reach 74℃ or 165℉ it is safe to eat. Top with malt vinegar and tartar sauce to enjoy hot and crispy fish sticks.
How long do you microwave fish sticks
Depending on the amount, kind of crunchy breaded fish sticks and microwave wattage, the cooking time varies. Also, the brand recommendation suggests different microwave time as well.
In general, a single serving of fish sticks takes about 2 minutes on high power to heat completely. Always heat until the internal temperature reaches 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
Be aware that the more fish sticks there are the more cooking time is required, however we do not advise to microwave more than 2 serving at a time for best results. Overcrowding the appliance will potentially ruin the crispiness and may end up with soggy fish sticks.
How to store leftover fish sticks
Furthermore, the success of reheating leftover food also depends on how the food is stored.
When the fish fingers are leftover, let the cooked fish sticks cool down completely before storing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. Once they are cooled off, wrap up single portions to make reheating easier when needed.
With this proper storing method, the fish fingers will stay good for about 5 days in the fridge or up to 6 months in the freezer.
Furthermore, when reheating fish fingers, always check to see if the fish sticks have gone bad or safe to consume by looking at the color and observing any foul odors.
If the fish looks brown, this means that the fish fingers gone through oxidation and it is not recommended to eat. Also, any sign of mold or discoloration is not safe at all.
Additionally, try to smell the fish fingers. If it smells like rotten eggs or ammonia, simply throw them away. In general, if uncertain, discard the fish sticks instead of reheating them as they are probably not safe to eat.
Tips to microwave fish sticks
If you are looking for a fast and convenient cooking method, microwave will be your go-to. It is significantly quicker compared to oven, air fryer and pan-frying, however the crispy breading tends to loose its crunchy texture when done incorrectly.
But, microwaving fish sticks is often a healthier options because it’s being cooked without the need for cooking oil.
Microwave is perfectly safe and helps you prepare a quick meal at any time. To get crispy outer edges every time, here are useful tips to microwave fish sticks.
- Thaw any frozen fish sticks prior to cooking them to achieve evenly cooked dish and reduce microwave time when heated.
- Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the microwave wattage and number of pieces being cooked.
- Do not overload the microwaveable plate with fish sticks. Stick with 4 to 8 pieces at one time.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 74 degrees Celsius or 165 degree Fahrenheit or higher before serving.
- Consider using a microwave crisper pan or use a flat microwave-safe dish with a sheet of parchment paper or paper towel on the bottom.
Best way to microwave fish sticks
Microwaving fish sticks are fast and easy to get the job done whether it is made out of different types of fish like hake, cod, haddock, or pollock. Always fully cook the fish stick to prevent food poisoning due to undercooked fish.
Most store-bought fish sticks are battered with crunchy edges and precooked to perfection before being frozen.
Whether it is frozen or needs to be reheated, remember to heat up fish sticks into a proper temperature with right texture for serving.
Lay a dry paper towel or parchment paper on the microwave-safe dish, and place a serving of 4 to 8 pieces of fish fingers in a single layer.
Position the fish sticks so they are around the edges of the plate instead of the center or middle of the dish to help cook faster.
A microwave crisper pan will give the best results every time, the fish sticks will be crispy on the edges just like the cam out of a fryer. Instead of a microwave-safe plate, substitute for a preheated crisper tray.
Set the microwave on full or high heat and run for 1 minute. Shake or flip the fish sticks on the other sides and continue to nuke for 30 to 60 seconds until it turns golden brown.
Once the fish stick is fully heated, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to determine if it reaches 74°C or 165°F and is safe to consume.
Microwaving Fish Sticks: Conclusion
If you are looking for healthy ways to enjoy fish sticks as a snack, side or meal, consider using a microwave. Furthermore, it can significantly lower the cholesterol and calories of the meal by not using oil or frying.
In addition, using a microwave does not destroy nutrients of fish or alter the texture when done correctly.
Prepare a microwaveable plate with a parchment paper to help absorb any moisture while heating the fish sticks. For best result, consider using a preheated microwave crisper pan for quick turnaround and crunchy edges every time.
Place 4 to 8 fish sticks around the outside of the plate for fast results.
Cook the fish stick on high power for 1 minute, flip to the other side and continue microwaving for 30 to 60 seconds until the internal temperature reaches 74℃ or 165℉ for food safety and the outer edges turn golden brown.
There you have it! Dip the microwave fish sticks into malt vinegar and tartar sauce to enjoy crispy and juicy fish fingers that fulfill your hunger cravings in minutes.