Make Forty’s Famous Fish Sandwich at Home!

Lawrence County folks, if you’ve ever sunk your teeth into a crispy, golden fish sandwich from Forty’s and wondered how they nail that perfect batter, wonder no more. We’ve got the handwritten recipe straight from the source so you can recreate Forty’s Famous Fish Sandwich right in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a Friday night tradition or a weekend treat, this one’s a southern Indiana classic.

Forty’s Batter (for Fish)

Ingredients:

6 eggs
3 cups milk
3 cups water
1 tablespoon vanilla
¼ cup celery salt
4 cups flour
¼ cup yellow corn meal
1 teaspoon sugar
6 tsp baking soda
6 tsp soda (baking soda — the recipe lists both, likely for lift and balance)
Optional/any beer: 1 can Busch Beer (leave out overnight) + ¼ cup salt

Mix all together with a mixer

Pro Tip from the Recipe: Use cod fish only. You can buy celery salt at the IGA.

Prep the Batter

Crack 6 eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add the 3 cups milk, 3 cups water, and 1 tablespoon vanilla. Sprinkle in the ¼ cup celery salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, and the optional Busch Beer + extra salt if you’re going that route (letting the beer go flat overnight helps mellow it and adds subtle flavor without the fizz).

Dry Ingredients

Mix in 4 cups flour, ¼ cup yellow corn meal, 6 teaspoons baking soda, and 6 teaspoons soda. Use a mixer to combine everything until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the fish nicely but still pourable.

Fish Time

Use fresh or thawed cod fillets only (this is key for that signature texture and mild flavor Forty’s is known for). Pat the fillets dry, then dip them generously in the batter, letting excess drip off.

Fry It Up

Heat oil in a deep fryer, Dutch oven, or heavy skillet to 350–375°F. Carefully fry the battered cod until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and flaky on the inside (about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Assemble the Sandwich

Serve on a soft bun or hoagie roll with your favorites: tartar sauce, coleslaw, pickles, lettuce, or a slice of American cheese. Classic sides include fries, onion rings, or a cold drink to cut through the richness.

Why This Batter Works

The combo of eggs, milk, and beer (optional) creates a light yet sturdy coating. Celery salt brings that savory, nostalgic flavor punch, while the cornmeal adds crunch. The double baking soda gives it serious lift for that restaurant-style crispiness.

Local Tip: Grab your cod and celery salt from the IGA just like the note says—keeping it simple and local.
There you have it—Forty’s Famous Fish Sandwich in your own home. Give it a try this weekend and let us know how it turns out in the comments. Nothing beats that first crunchy bite that takes you right back to the counter at Forty’s.
Dig in, Lawrence County! 🍔🐟