Crispy, golden, and comforting—fish and chips is a classic beloved in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. With the right batter, the perfect frying technique, and fluffy chips, you can recreate an authentic pub-style meal right at home. Here’s how to make the best fish and chips recipe ever!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Fish
1½ lbs cod, haddock, or pollock (cut into strips)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cold sparkling water or beer
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional flour for dredging
Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
For the Chips (Fries)
4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick chips
Salt to taste
Oil for frying
Optional Extras
Lemon wedges
Malt vinegar
Tartar sauce
🍟 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chips
Slice the potatoes into thick, even fries.
Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
Boil in salted water for 5–6 minutes until barely tender.
Drain and pat dry—this is key for crispiness.
Heat oil to 300°F (150°C).
Fry the chips for 4–5 minutes until pale and soft. Remove and rest.
This two-step frying method gives you chips that are fluffy inside and crisp outside.
🐟 2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour in cold sparkling water or beer—this makes the batter light and airy.
Whisk until smooth but don’t overmix.
Chill the batter in the fridge for 10 minutes while heating the oil.
🐠 3. Fry the Fish
Heat oil to 350°F (180°C).
Pat fish dry, then lightly coat in flour (helps the batter stick).
Dip each piece into the chilled batter.
Gently place into hot oil and fry 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Your fish should be crunchy on the outside and tender, flaky on the inside—perfection!
🍟 4. Finish the Chips
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Fry the chips again until golden and crispy—around 3–4 minutes.
Season with salt immediately.
🍋 Serving Suggestions
Squeeze over fresh lemon juice
Serve with tartar sauce or malt vinegar
Add mushy peas for a classic British touch
Pair with coleslaw or simple green salad
⭐ Why This Is the Best Fish and Chips Recipe
Double-fried chips = perfectly crisp
Cold sparkling water/beer batter = light and crunchy coating
Fresh white fish = delicate, flavorful, and flaky
Simple ingredients = classic and clean flavors
It truly tastes like your favorite pub or seaside shop but made fresh at home.
🔧 Pro Tips for Perfect Fish & Chips
Keep the batter cold for maximum crispness.
Use a thermometer for oil—you’ll get consistent frying results.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in batches.
Dry fish thoroughly before battering.
Serve immediately for best texture.
🎉 Conclusion
Now you’re ready to make the best fish and chips recipe ever! With its crispy golden fish, perfectly fried chips, and simple ingredients, this homemade version is guaranteed to impress. Perfect for family dinners, weekend treats, or recreating a classic British comfort food night at home.