1. Prepare the Fish Fingers
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In a second shallow bowl, place the beaten eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each fish strip in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the fish to ensure a good coating.
- Place the breaded fish fingers on a plate and let them rest while you prepare the fries and beans.
2. Prepare the Peri Peri Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, peri peri seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Spread the seasoned fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
3. Cook the Beans
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- If using, add the tomato paste and water, stirring to combine.
- Add the beans, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beans in the sauce.
- Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and the flavors meld together.
4. Fry the Fish Fingers
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the fish fingers in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Remove the fish fingers with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serving
- Serve the crispy fish fingers hot alongside the peri peri fries and a generous serving of beans.
- Optionally, garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Crispy Fish Fingers: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy fish fingers.
- Even Fries: Cut the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Rich Beans: For a richer flavor, simmer the beans longer and allow the sauce to thicken.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Fish Fingers: Add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- BBQ Beans: Add a splash of barbecue sauce to the beans for a smoky twist.
Conclusion
This meal of fish fingers with peri peri fries and beans is a delicious, balanced, and satisfying option for any occasion. By following this guide, you’ll create a dish that’s not only tasty but also easy to prepare.
Key Takeaway
The combination of crispy fish fingers, spicy peri peri fries, and savory beans makes for a delightful and balanced meal. With these steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Happy cooking!