Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes:
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash:
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
- Add Butter and Milk:
- Add the softened butter and warmed milk to the mashed potatoes. Stir until well combined and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional Add-Ins:
- For extra flavor, stir in minced garlic, sour cream, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- Keep Warm:
- Cover the pot and keep the mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish Batter
- Preheat Oil:
- Heat oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold beer and egg. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Dredge the Fish:
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly coat each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps the batter adhere better to the fish.
- Coat in Batter:
- Dip each floured fillet into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
- Fry the Fish:
- Carefully place the battered fish fillets into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Keep Warm:
- Place the fried fish on a baking sheet and keep warm in a low oven (200°F/93°C) while you finish frying the remaining fillets.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Fish and Mashed Potatoes:
- Serve the crispy battered fish fillets alongside a generous serving of creamy mashed potatoes on individual plates.
- Add Condiments:
- Offer classic condiments such as tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and malt vinegar for the fish. Garnish the mashed potatoes with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Choosing the Fish:
- Cod and haddock are traditional choices for battered fish, but you can also use other white fish like tilapia or pollock.
- Beer Batter Alternatives:
- If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute sparkling water. The carbonation helps create a light and crispy batter.
- Flavored Mashed Potatoes:
- Add roasted garlic, shredded cheese, or caramelized onions to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Double Frying the Fish:
- For an even crispier texture, you can fry the fish fillets twice. Fry them until lightly golden, let them cool slightly, and then fry again until deeply golden and crispy.
Conclusion
This Crispy Battered Fish with Mashed Potatoes recipe combines two comforting classics into a delightful meal. The crispy, golden fish paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and savor the taste of a true culinary classic!
By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process and the delightful taste of crispy battered fish with creamy mashed potatoes!