Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This recipe for Halibut Fish and Chips offers a delicious and lighter take on a beloved classic. Forget greasy takeaways; this homemade version is packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for two generous servings.
For the Halibut:
- 2 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup ice water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Chips (Fries):
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Malt vinegar (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Tartar sauce or aioli
- Lemon wedges
Instructions:
Preparing the Chips:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the potato fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Preparing the Halibut:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Gradually whisk in the ice water until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of batter sizzles immediately.
- Dip each halibut fillet into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Carefully place the battered halibut in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- Remove the cooked halibut from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Serving Your Delicious Creation:
Serve the crispy halibut immediately alongside the golden fries. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a generous drizzle of malt vinegar, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli complete this delightful meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fish and Chips:
- Use ice water: Ice water helps create a lighter, crispier batter.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish.
- Check for doneness: The halibut is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Drain well: Draining the fish on a wire rack helps remove excess oil.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Herb it up: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the batter.
- Different fish: Cod, haddock, or pollock can be used as substitutes for halibut.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Enjoy your homemade Halibut Fish and Chips! This easy recipe is a fantastic alternative to takeout, offering a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will love. Remember to share your culinary creations with us!