Air fryer beer battered fish and chips

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes (Chips)

1. 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.
2. Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cold beer.
3. Combine: Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 3: Coat the Fish

1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each fish fillet with the remaining 1/2 cup flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip in Batter: Dip the floured fish fillets into the beer batter, coating them evenly.
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Coat the battered fish fillets with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.

Step 4: Cook the Chips

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the Chips: Place the potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. Rest and Serve: Allow the fish and chips to cool slightly before serving.
2. Optional Toppings: Serve with tartar sauce, malt vinegar, lemon wedges, and a side of peas or coleslaw.

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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!