Beer Battered Cod

Beer Battered Cod

Beer Battered Cod

The origins of fish and chips can be traced back as early as the 15th century; thought to be created by Spanish and Portuguese Jewish immigrants in the U.K. A simple batter consisting of flour, baking soda, and water was whisked together, with the fish being dipped in it, then fried in either beef fat or lard. Fish and chips is considered to be the national dish of England; once boasting 35000 fish and chip shops across the entire U.K. Now there are less than 10000 shops left of this emblematic dish.
When making battered fish, using beer instead of water will make the batter lighter and crispier. You can use any type of lager, pilsner, or an ale. I’m partial to Bell’s Two Hearted IPA. Cod and haddock are the two most commonly used fish for traditional fish and chips, but you can also use tilapia, pollock, hake, halibut, whiting, or flounder. If you’re from MN, we will use walleye. Malt vinegar and tartar sauce are the two most popular accompaniments.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Course: Main Course
Keyword: fish, how to make, main course
Author: Alex Gorgos

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs cod
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • salt
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • malt vinegar

Beer Batter

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 1/3 cup beer lager, pilsner, or ale
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  • Whisk together the flour, garlic, and onion powder in a bowl.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Whisk in the beer until the batter is smooth. Set aside.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Cut the cod into 2” pieces. Season with salt.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Dredge the cod in flour. Shake off any excess.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Assemble an assembly line of the cod and beer batter.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Dip the cod into the batter.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Heat up 3” of vegetable oil in a wok or pot over medium high heat. Gently place the battered cod into the oil.
    How to make, main course, fish
  • Fry for 4 minutes a side, carefully turning.
    How to make, main course, fish
How to make, main course, fish
Drain the grease and serve with malt vinegar and tartar sauce.