I’d be happy to share my thoughts on using IPA for fish and chips! I’ve actually tried it myself and can tell you about my experience.
First, let’s talk about the batter. To achieve that perfect crispy coating on the fish, you’ll want to start by making a smooth pancake-like batter. In a mixing bowl, I combined flour and a small amount of IPA. I found that whisking in the IPA in small amounts (about 2 tablespoons at a time) helped me achieve the right consistency without any lumps. It’s important to whisk slowly and not overmix the batter, as this can result in a heavy and dense coating.
Now, here comes an interesting twist. Instead of using just IPA, I decided to add a splash of vodka to the batter. The vodka helps to create an even lighter and crisper texture. I whisked it in gently, being careful not to overdo it.
Next, it was time to prepare the fish. I chose a white fish fillet, such as cod or haddock, but you can use any firm white fish you prefer. To ensure a perfectly coated fish, I seasoned all-purpose flour with salt and coated the fish completely, shaking off any excess flour. This step is essential to help the batter adhere to the fish and create that delightful crunch when fried.
Once the fish was coated, I gently dipped it into the prepared batter, making sure it was fully covered. I then carefully placed it into a deep fryer or a pan with hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. I fried the fish until it turned golden brown and crispy, which usually took about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
The result? I was pleasantly surprised by how well the IPA and vodka batter worked for my fish and chips. The combination of the IPA and vodka helped create a light and airy coating that was wonderfully crisp and flavorful. The fish itself remained moist and tender on the inside.
Of course, taste preferences can vary, so feel free to experiment with different ratios of IPA and vodka to suit your liking. Additionally, you can also add seasonings or herbs to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
Using IPA in your fish and chips batter can be a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. The IPA adds a unique flavor profile, while the addition of vodka helps create a lighter and crisper texture. Give it a try and enjoy the crispy goodness of IPA-battered fish!