There’s something undeniably satisfying about a crispy beer-battered fish that’s both comforting and delicious. This classic dish brings together the simplicity of fresh fish with the crunch of a perfectly fried coating. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in with a homemade meal, this Beer Battered Fish recipe is sure to hit the spot.
**Beer Battered Fish**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beer (lager or ale works well)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Fish:** Start by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Cut the fillets into manageable pieces, about 3-4 inches long, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. **Make the Batter:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Slowly pour in the beer while whisking continuously to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter – not too thick or too thin.
3. **Heat the Oil:** Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C) on a deep-fry thermometer.
4. **Coat the Fish:** Dip each piece of seasoned fish into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully placing the fish into the hot oil. Fry the fish in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.
5. **Fry the Fish:** Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently flip the fish halfway through cooking. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
6. **Drain and Serve:** Once the fish is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain off any excess oil. This will help maintain the crispiness of the batter. Serve the beer-battered fish hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side.
7. **Enjoy!** Dive into the crispy exterior of the beer-battered fish to reveal the tender, flaky fish inside. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to please your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Beer Battered Fish recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a good homemade meal. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that oil, and get ready to savor every bite of this classic comfort food dish. Cheers to good food and good company!
