
Golden Beer-Battered Fish and Onion Rings: A Crispy Delight
Introduction
Take your taste buds on a culinary adventure with this golden beer-battered fish and onion rings recipe. The crispy, light batter and juicy fish fillets pair perfectly with crunchy onion rings, making it a hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Beer-Battered Fish:
- 4 fresh fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock work best)
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 cup (240ml) ice-cold beer
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Onion Rings:
- 2 large sweet onions, sliced into rings
- 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (180ml) ice-cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish
- Dipping sauces: tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly whisk in the cold beer until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge while preparing the fish.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Coat and Fry the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and lightly dust with flour to ensure the batter sticks.
- Dip each fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Carefully place the fish in the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Remove the fillets and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Onion Rings
- In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt for the onion rings.
- Gradually whisk in the sparkling water until smooth.
- Dip each onion ring into the batter, then fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Transfer the onion rings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the crispy fish fillets alongside the onion rings.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ensure the beer and sparkling water are ice-cold for a light and crispy batter.
- Fry in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and avoid overcrowding.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Golden beer-battered fish and onion rings are a timeless classic that brings a satisfying crunch and bold flavor to your table. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a pub-style feast from the comfort of your own home!