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Crispy Beer-Battered Fish and Chips

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Golden beer-battered cod served with thick-cut fries, fresh lemon slices, and a side of creamy tartar sauce—an iconic pub-style classic made at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless cod fillets (about 5 oz each)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup cold beer (lager or pale ale works best)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
  • Lemon slices and fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Tartar sauce, for serving

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut potatoes into thick fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Fry the potatoes in batches for about 3–4 minutes until tender but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  5. Gradually whisk in the cold beer until the batter is smooth. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  6. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and lightly coat them in flour to help the batter stick.
  7. Dip each fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then gently lower into hot oil. Fry in batches for 6–8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Drain fish on a wire rack or paper towels.
  9. Return the fries to the oil and fry a second time for 2–3 minutes, until golden and crispy.
  10. Plate the fish and chips with lemon slices, a sprinkle of parsley, and a generous spoonful of tartar sauce.

Notes

  • Ensure the beer is very cold for the crispiest batter.
  • Double-frying the potatoes gives them the classic crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
  • You can substitute cod with haddock or pollock if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: fish and chips, beer-battered cod, British pub food, crispy fish, homemade fries

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/crispy-beer-battered-fish-and-chips/