Cod in beer crust

Beer-Battered Fried Fish – a delicious and simple recipe that brings a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your plate!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

We all have moments when we want to indulge in a delicious dish, and this beer-battered fried fish is the perfect choice! This recipe not only offers a fantastic taste but also a crispy texture, thanks to the combination of beer, flour, and cornstarch. It is a popular dish in seaside taverns, where fresh fish is often served with flavorful sauces. Whether you choose to enjoy it with a traditional sauce or a garlic dip, it will surely captivate you!

Ingredients:

- 800 g fish fillet (cod or any other boneless white fish)
- 1 cup (about 250 ml) cold beer
- 1 cup (about 150 g) flour
- 1 cup (about 130 g) cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (about 500 ml)

Recipe history:
This recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of coastal countries, where fresh fish is a staple ingredient. The technique of frying fish in light batters was developed to preserve the juiciness of the meat while the exterior becomes crispy and golden. Beer, as an ingredient, adds a distinct flavor and helps create a fluffy, flavorful crust.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fish:
First, make sure you have a quality fish fillet, boneless. You can choose cod, but other types of white fish are also suitable. Cut the fillets into medium pieces, about 5 cm, and set them aside.

2. Preparing the batter:
In a bowl, combine the beer, flour, and cornstarch. Mix well with a whisk or spatula until there are no lumps. It is important for the batter to be smooth. The cornstarch is the secret ingredient that will help achieve a tender and delicious crust.

3. Chilling the mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can use very cold beer straight from the fridge. The cold will help form an excellent crust when frying the fish.

4. Preparing for frying:
On a flat plate, sprinkle a little flour, which will help the batter stick to the fish. Take each piece of fish and dip it in flour, ensuring it is well coated. Then, dip the piece into the beer mixture, making sure it is well covered with batter.

5. Frying:
In a deep pan, add the oil and heat it well (about 180°C). When the oil is hot, add the pieces of fish, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the crust becomes golden and crispy. Don’t worry if the color is darker; this means the fish is well fried.

6. Draining the oil:
Once the fish is ready, remove it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step is essential for keeping the dish light and crispy.

7. Serving:
Serve the fried fish immediately, alongside a delicious sauce. A traditional option is skordalia, a creamy sauce based on potatoes and garlic, but you can also opt for garlic dip for an intense flavor. Add fresh lemon for an extra touch of freshness!

Useful tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish; otherwise, the crust won’t become crispy.
- If you want to try a healthier version, you can bake the fish in the oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes until it becomes golden.
- This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or fried potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What type of fish can I use?
You can use any firm white fish, such as cod, hake, or tilapia.

2. Can I use another drink instead of beer?
Yes, you can try sparkling mineral water for a lighter crust.

3. How can I store fried fish?
It is recommended to consume the fish immediately after frying to enjoy the crispy texture. If there are leftovers, you can store them in the fridge, covered, but the texture will not be as good.

Nutritional benefits:
Fish is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Therefore, this recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, providing essential nutrients for a balanced diet.

In conclusion, this beer-battered fried fish is an accessible yet flavorful dish, perfect for a family dinner or a lunch with friends. Don't hesitate to experiment and personalize your recipe! Enjoy!