Seafood

Fish and Chips

Fish and Chips
Experience the quintessential British seaside classic at home with this foolproof recipe. Featuring flaky white fish in a light, carbonated beer batter and hand-cut, double-fried chips for the ultimate crunch.

Prep

20m

Cook

40m

Serves

4


1 Ingredients

Qty Ingredient
1.5 lbs 680 g Cod or Haddock fillets
2 lbs 900 g Russet potatoes
1.5 cups 185 g All-purpose flour
1 tsp 5 g Baking powder
12 fl oz 355 ml Cold Lager or Ale
1 quart 945 ml Vegetable oil
1 tsp 6 g Sea salt
2 tbsp 30 ml Malt vinegar

2 Method

1

Step 1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/2-inch thick batons. Soak them in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch, then drain and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels.

2

Step 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 320°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5-6 minutes until they are tender but haven't changed color. Drain on paper towels and let cool.

3

Step 3. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly pour in the ice-cold beer, whisking constantly until the batter is smooth and resembles thick cream. Keep the batter in the refrigerator until ready to use.

4

Step 4. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).

5

Step 5. Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season with salt and dredge each piece in the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, shaking off any excess.

6

Step 6. Dip the floured fish into the cold beer batter, ensuring a full coating, then carefully lower the fillets into the hot oil.

7

Step 7. Fry the fish for 4-5 minutes, turning once, until the batter is deep golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.

8

Step 8. Place the par-cooked chips back into the 375°F (190°C) oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and very crisp. Drain on paper towels, season immediately with sea salt, and serve hot with malt vinegar.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • ·

    Ensure your beer is ice-cold; the temperature difference between the cold batter and hot oil creates a steam reaction for a light, airy crust.

  • ·

    Always pat your fish completely dry before dredging in flour, otherwise the batter will slide off during frying.

  • ·

    Don't overcrowd the pot while frying, as this will drop the oil temperature and lead to greasy fish.

  • ·

    Use a high smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best results.

? FAQ

Which fish is best for fish and chips?
Cod and haddock are the traditional choices because they are firm, white, and flake beautifully when steamed inside the batter.
Can I make the batter in advance?
It is best to make the batter right before frying to maintain the carbonation from the beer, which is key to the texture.
How do I keep the fish crispy while I fry the chips?
Place the finished fish on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F) while you finish the second fry of the chips.
Can I use something other than beer?
Yes, highly carbonated sparkling water or club soda can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute to achieve a similar light texture.

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