Classic British Fish and Chips Recipe

4 stars
3.64 (16)
Classic British Fish and Chips Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
60mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 01, 2023

Learn how to make this classic British dish of crispy fish and chips at home. This recipe will guide you through the steps of breading and frying the fish until it is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve alongside golden, crispy chips for a meal that will take you straight to a pub in England. The combination of the flaky fish and the crunchy chips is a winner every time!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 egg
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 4 large potatoes (russet or baking potatoes)
  • Salt (for seasoning)

Directions

  1. Peel and slice the potatoes into thick, even-sized chips.
  2. Rinse the potato slices in cold water to remove excess starch.
  3. Heat a large pot of vegetable oil to 340°F (170°C).
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water.
  6. Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
  7. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  8. Carefully place the battered fish fillets into the hot oil and fry for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  10. Increase the temperature of the oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potato chips until golden brown and crispy, about 4-6 minutes.
  11. Remove the chips from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  12. Season the chips with salt while they are still hot.
  13. Serve the crispy fish and chips together, garnished with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

Interesting Facts

  • Fish and chips became popular in the UK in the mid-19th century and remain a beloved comfort food today.
  • The traditional fish used in fish and chips is cod, but haddock and plaice are also commonly used.
  • In 2003, a British National Fish and Chip Day was established to celebrate this iconic dish.
  • It is said that fish and chips were one of the few foods not rationed during World War II in the UK.