If you thought classic comfort food couldn’t be elevated, this Crispy Fish & Chips will change your mind. Golden, crispy fish fillets paired with perfectly seasoned, crisp fries create the ultimate balance of flavors and textures. This refined take on a beloved favorite brings a touch of elegance to your table, perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering of friends. Whether it’s the crunch of the batter or the creamy tartar sauce, every bite of this dish feels like a celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy, Golden Perfection – A perfectly fried, light batter that crisps up beautifully without being greasy.
Flaky & Tender Fish – Mild, flaky white fish with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Homemade Fries – Hand-cut, seasoned fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Elevated Comfort Food – A sophisticated twist on a classic dish that feels like an indulgence.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup sparkling water (cold)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Chips:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
For the Tartar Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp capers, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss the cut potatoes in olive oil, sea salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
Step 2: Make the Tartar Sauce
While the fries bake, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, lemon juice, and fresh parsley in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the cold sparkling water, stirring until the batter is smooth but thick enough to coat the fish.
Step 4: Fry the Fish
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Dip the fish fillets into the batter, coating them evenly. Fry the fish in the hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Place the crispy fish fillets alongside the freshly baked fries and serve with a generous dollop of tartar sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
Expert Tips for the Best Fish & Chips
Use Sparkling Water for the Batter – The carbonation in sparkling water helps create a lighter, crispier batter.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry the fish in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature and to ensure a crispy texture.
Season the Fries Well – Adding a pinch of paprika and freshly ground pepper elevates the flavor of your homemade fries.
Pair It With
Lemon Wedges – Fresh lemon wedges for a zesty squeeze right before your first bite.
A Fresh Green Salad – A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness.
A Crisp White Wine – A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the light, crispy fish.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the fish and chips in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the batter soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Fish & Chips recipe is a sophisticated take on a beloved classic, offering crispy perfection and a melt-in-your-mouth fish fillet with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or as part of a special gathering, it’s sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite white wine, savor the crunch, and enjoy the elegance of this comfort food at its finest.
