Halibut, with its delicate, flaky texture and mild flavor, is the king of fish and chips. This recipe elevates the classic dish, ensuring perfectly crispy batter and unbelievably tender halibut. Forget greasy disappointments – this recipe delivers the ultimate fish and chips experience.
Why Halibut for Fish and Chips?
While cod is a traditional choice, halibut offers a superior eating experience. Its firm flesh holds up beautifully to the frying process, resulting in a flaky, moist interior, unlike some other white fish that can become dry. Its subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty, crispy batter and malt vinegar.
What You'll Need:
For the Halibut:
- 1 lb halibut fillet, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 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 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
For Serving:
- Malt vinegar
- Tartar sauce
- Lemon wedges
Preparing the Halibut:
1. Preparing the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the ice water until a smooth batter forms. It should be slightly thick, like pancake batter. Avoid overmixing. The key to a light and crispy batter is incorporating as little air as possible.
2. Coating the Halibut:
Dip each piece of halibut into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
3. Frying the Halibut:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the battered halibut into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the halibut from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Preparing the Chips:
1. Soaking the Potatoes (Optional but Recommended):
Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
2. Drying the Potatoes:
Thoroughly dry the potatoes with paper towels before frying. Any remaining moisture will cause the oil to splatter and prevent the fries from crisping properly.
3. Frying the Chips:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 325°F (165°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened but not browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Second Fry (for extra crispiness):
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again for another 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and season immediately with salt.
Serving Your Masterpiece:
Serve the halibut and chips immediately. Garnish with malt vinegar, tartar sauce, and lemon wedges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What is the best type of oil to fry fish and chips?
Vegetable oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil, is ideal for frying fish and chips. These oils can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and imparting undesirable flavors.
How do I know when the halibut is cooked through?
The halibut is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in dry halibut.
Can I bake the halibut instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the halibut. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the battered halibut on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. However, baking won't achieve the same crispy texture as frying.
How can I make my chips extra crispy?
The key to extra crispy chips is to thoroughly dry the potatoes before frying and to use a two-stage frying process (as described above). Don't overcrowd the pan during frying, and ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
What are some good dipping sauces for halibut fish and chips?
Besides tartar sauce and malt vinegar, other delicious dipping sauces include aioli, remoulade, or even a simple sriracha mayo.
Enjoy your homemade halibut fish and chips! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
