Air Fryer Beer Battered Fish and Chips is a lighter, healthier take on the classic British pub favorite. This recipe uses the air fryer to create crispy, golden fish and fries without the extra oil of deep frying. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that’s also a bit healthier!
Air Fryer Beer Battered Fish and Chips
Ingredients:
For the Beer Battered Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), about 6 oz each
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale, cold)
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for spraying
For the Chips (Fries):
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into thick strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes (Chips)
- Cut and Soak: Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick strips. Place them in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and help them crisp up better.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Season and Oil: Toss the potato strips with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Beer Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold beer.
- Combine: Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 3: Coat the Fish
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each fish fillet with the remaining 1/2 cup flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Batter: Dip the floured fish fillets into the beer batter, coating them evenly.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Coat the battered fish fillets with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.
Step 4: Cook the Chips
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the Chips: Place the potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Air Fry: Cook the chips at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Cook the Fish
- Preheat the Air Fryer: If you have already cooked the chips, keep the air fryer at 400°F (200°C). If not, preheat it now.
- Arrange the Fish: Place the battered and breadcrumb-coated fish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil.
- Air Fry: Cook the fish at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve
- Rest and Serve: Allow the fish and chips to cool slightly before serving.
- Optional Toppings: Serve with tartar sauce, malt vinegar, lemon wedges, and a side of peas or coleslaw.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fish and Chips:
- Dry the Fish: Make sure the fish is well-dried before coating to ensure the batter sticks properly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve a crispy texture on both the fish and chips.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the fish and chips in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Accompaniments: Serve with traditional British sides like mushy peas or pickled onions.
- Sauces: Try with tartar sauce, ketchup, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
- Salads: A simple green salad or a tangy slaw complements the meal nicely.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Beer Battered Fish and Chips offer a crispy, satisfying meal with less oil and fewer calories than traditional deep-fried versions. Enjoy this classic comfort food with all the flavor and none of the guilt!