Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce

Posted on June 26, 2025

Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce

Welcome to our delicious recipe for Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce, a dish that beautifully marries the crispy, flaky goodness of fish strips with the wholesome, nutty flavors of farro and the delightful zing of a maple-mustard dipping sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun family gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish will surely impress your family and friends.

This delightful meal is inspired by the flavors of autumn, featuring seasonal ingredients that evoke warmth and comfort. The crispy fish strips are coated in a crunchy panko crust, making them irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Pair them with the hearty autumn harvest farro, which combines butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans, and you have a complete meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

To top it all off, the maple-mustard dipping sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that elevates the whole dish. It’s an exciting combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why you will adore our Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce. First and foremost, it’s a dish that caters to a variety of taste preferences. The crispy fish is a hit among seafood lovers, while the vibrant farro salad appeals to health-conscious eaters. The maple-mustard sauce adds a unique twist that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the cod for your favorite fish, such as tilapia or haddock, making it adaptable to what you have on hand. The autumn harvest farro can also be customized with whatever vegetables you have available. Want to add some spinach or kale? Go for it! This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen.

Another reason to love this dish is its nutritional benefits. Cod is a lean source of protein, while farro is a whole grain that is rich in fiber and essential nutrients. The addition of vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits adds a burst of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Not only is this meal satisfying, but it also fuels your body with goodness.

Finally, the preparation is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet meal that looks and tastes like it’s from a restaurant. This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out our Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce will not only delight your taste buds but also bring excitement to your dinner table. Here are a few compelling reasons why this recipe is worth your time:

  • Easy to Follow: This recipe is designed for cooks of all skill levels. Each step is clearly outlined, ensuring you can create this delicious meal without any hassle.
  • Family-Friendly: The crispy fish and flavorful farro are sure to please the whole family. Kids will love the crunch of the fish strips, while adults will appreciate the wholesome ingredients.
  • Fall Flavors: Embrace the season with ingredients that celebrate autumn. The butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are not only tasty but also add a pop of color to your plate.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
  • Impressive Presentation: When plated, this dish looks stunning! The colors of the vegetables and the golden-brown fish create a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Before diving into the preparation, let’s gather our ingredients and tools. Here’s what you will need for the Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Fish Strips:

  • 1 pound cod fillets, cut into strips
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Autumn Harvest Farro:

  • 1 cup farro
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup butternut squash, diced
  • 1/2 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Recommended Utensils

  • Three shallow dishes (for breading)
  • Large skillet for frying
  • Medium saucepan for cooking farro
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Paper towels for draining the fish
  • Small bowl for mixing the sauce

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get started with the preparation of our Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce.

Prepare the Crispy Fish Strips:

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour will add flavor to the fish strips.
  2. Set Up for Breading: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  3. Bread the Fish: Take each fish strip and first dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring to shake off the excess. Then, transfer it to the beaten eggs, coating well before finally rolling it in the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each strip is fully covered for maximum crispiness.
  4. Fry the Fish: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the fish strips in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Cook the Autumn Harvest Farro:

  1. Rinse the Farro: Start by rinsing the farro under cold water to remove any impurities.
  2. Cook the Farro: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed farro and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the cooked farro along with the dried cranberries and chopped pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce:

  1. Whisk Together: In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. This sauce adds the perfect sweet and tangy flavor to the crispy fish strips.

FAQs

What kind of fish is best for fish strips?

Cod is a popular choice for fish strips due to its mild flavor and flaky texture. However, you can also use tilapia, haddock, or even salmon for a richer taste.

Can I make the farro in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the farro in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just reheat it before serving.

How do I keep the fish strips crispy?

To maintain the crispiness of fish strips, ensure they are not overcrowded during frying and drain them on paper towels. You can also keep them warm in an oven set to low heat while you fry the rest.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or even some roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Can I use a different grain instead of farro?

Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute farro with quinoa, barley, or even brown rice for a different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall while offering a satisfying meal for the whole family. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dish that not only tastes great but also nourishes your body.

We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to your table. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below, and feel free to share this article with friends and family who would also love to join in on the fun of cooking. Happy cooking!

For more delightful recipes, check out our other creations like Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce and Crispy Fish Bites with Tartar and Lemon Aioli.

For more inspiration, visit our Pinterest page here.

Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce

Crispy Fish Strips with Autumn Harvest Farro & Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce

Enjoy crispy fish strips paired with a hearty autumn harvest farro and a sweet yet tangy maple-mustard dipping sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan

Ingredients
  

Crispy Fish Strips

  • 1 pound Cod fillets, cut into strips
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 Large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying Enough for frying

Autumn Harvest Farro

  • 1 cup Farro
  • 2 cups Vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup Butternut squash, diced
  • 1/2 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/4 cup Dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup Pecans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil

Maple-Mustard Dipping Sauce

  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup Maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  • Dip each fish strip into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the fish strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Rinse the farro under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
  • Add the farro and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
  • In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the cooked farro, dried cranberries, and pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Notes

For extra crunch, you can double coat the fish strips by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Keyword autumn, dinner, farro, fish

You might also like these recipes