Fish Batter In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Frying fish in an air fryer is a great way to get crispy, battered fish without the mess and grease of a deep-fat fryer. You can use a variety of white fish, such as cod, haddock, or halibut, and a simple flour and egg wash batter, or a beer batter for extra flavour. The air fryer method is much healthier, using less oil, and you can still get a crispy, golden finish. It's also quick and easy, with most recipes taking under 20 minutes to cook.

Beer batter vs regular batter

Yes, you can batter fish in an air fryer. In fact, air-frying your fish lets you get that crisp texture without all the oil. No mess and no having to let the fish dry on a paper towel.

Now, when it comes to beer batter vs. regular batter, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, let's look at the ingredients and how they differ.

Beer Batter

Beer batter is typically made with a combination of flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and an egg, with beer as the main liquid ingredient. The type of beer can vary, but a lager or pale ale is commonly used for their lighter flavour and affordability. Some recipes may also include additional spices or seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or old bay seasoning.

Regular Batter

Regular batter, on the other hand, usually refers to a basic batter made with flour, a leavening agent like baking powder, and a liquid such as water, milk, or buttermilk. It may also include eggs to help bind the ingredients together and provide a richer flavour. Regular batter can be used for a variety of fried foods, including fish, and is often seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

Texture and Taste

One of the key differences between beer batter and regular batter is the texture and taste of the final product. Beer batter tends to produce a lighter and crispier coating on fried fish due to the carbonation in the beer, which creates a unique texture. The beer also adds a subtle flavour that enhances the taste of the fish without overpowering it.

Regular batter, on the other hand, can result in a softer and doughier coating, especially if eggs are included in the batter. It may also be slightly denser and less airy than beer batter. However, regular batter can be just as tasty and crispy if prepared well, and it allows the flavour of the fish to shine through.

Preparation and Cooking

Both beer batter and regular batter have their own specific preparation and cooking methods. For beer batter, it is important to choose the right type of beer and combine it with the dry ingredients to create a smooth, pancake-like batter. The fish is usually coated in flour or cornstarch before being dipped in the batter, which helps the batter adhere to the fish.

Regular batter, on the other hand, may require a simple combination of dry ingredients and a liquid, with the option to add eggs for a richer flavour and texture. The preparation method for regular batter can vary depending on the specific recipe and the type of food being battered.

In terms of cooking, both beer-battered and regularly battered fish can be cooked in an air fryer. The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the recipe and the size of the fish, but generally, air frying results in a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil.

In conclusion, both beer batter and regular batter have their own unique characteristics and benefits. Beer batter offers a lighter and crispier texture with a subtle beer flavour, while regular batter provides a classic, versatile option that can be used for a variety of fried foods. Ultimately, the choice between beer batter and regular batter depends on personal preference, the desired flavour profile, and the specific recipe being used.

How to get the batter to stick

To get batter to stick to fish, you must ensure the fish is dry. Start by patting your fish dry with a clean dishtowel or paper kitchen towels. This is because crusts and batters stick better to dry fish than wet fish.

Dry Dipping

Use a dry ingredient like flour as a base coat for your fish. This helps the egg or other liquid used for breading to adhere better to the fish.

Egg Wash

Dip the floured fish in a beaten egg wash. This will help the breading to stick better.

Press the Breading

Once the fish is coated with the breading mixture, press the breading onto the fish gently with your fingers. This will help it adhere better.

Chill

Allow the breaded fish to chill in the fridge for at least 20-30 minutes before cooking. This will help the breading to set and stick better to the fish.

Check the Pan's Temperature

Some people find that the batter or crumbs come off the fish and stick to the pan when frying. Start with a non-stick pan. Use clean, new oil. Heat the oil before putting the battered or crumbed fish in. Never put the fish into cold oil, and do not let the oil get too hot.

Don't Stack the Pieces

Stacking the pieces of cooked fish will cause the battered pieces to stick together and come off. Keep the fish in a single layer on the serving plate.

What kind of fish to use

When it comes to choosing fish for your air fryer, you have a lot of options!

A mild white fish, such as cod, pollock, or haddock, is ideal. These fish have a meaty yet flaky texture and stay moist when cooked. It's important to cut the fish into pieces that are about 1 inch thick—any thinner and they'll dry out before the batter turns golden brown, and any thicker will take too long to cook properly.

Other types of white fish that work well in the air fryer include tilapia, catfish, and hake. You could also use salmon, although this is not a white fish.

If you're using frozen fish, be sure to defrost it completely before cooking. Leave it in the fridge overnight to thaw, or, if the piece is small, submerge it in ice-cold water for an hour or so.

For the best results, pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels before coating them in batter or breadcrumbs and placing them in the air fryer. This will help ensure that you get a crispy exterior.

How long to cook for

The cooking time for battered fish in an air fryer depends on the type of fish and the thickness of the fillets. For example, cod is usually on the thicker side, so thinner fish like whiting or flounder will require less time in the air fryer.

When cooking beer-battered fish in an air fryer, the fish should be cooked for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This will take around 12-14 minutes in total.

For a standard breaded fish recipe, the cooking time is around 12-15 minutes, flipping the fish halfway through at the 8-10 minute mark. The fish is ready when it is golden and flakes easily with a fork.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of air fryer and the thickness of the fish fillets. It is recommended to check the air fryer manual for specific instructions.

What to serve with battered fish

Battered fish is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Classic Sides

For a traditional take on battered fish, serve it with a side of crispy french fries or thick-cut chips. This combination is a classic for a reason, and it's sure to satisfy. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own homemade chips in the air fryer.

Vegetable Sides

If you want to add some greenery to your plate, consider serving your battered fish with vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, carrots, or a fresh mixed salad. These options offer a healthy and nutritious balance to the dish. You could also try roasted cauliflower, which pairs well with fish and can be easily prepared in an air fryer for a crispy texture.

Starchy Sides

Starchier sides like mashed potatoes, potato wedges, or baked potatoes are also excellent choices to accompany battered fish. For a more indulgent option, try cheese and bacon potato rounds. If you're looking for something with a kick, spice up your mashed potatoes with ingredients like garlic powder, jalapeno, or chili powder.

Dips and Sauces

Don't forget the dips and sauces! Tartar sauce is a classic pairing with battered fish, adding a creamy and tangy element to the dish. You could also try cocktail sauce, malt vinegar, or even a zesty remoulade for a unique twist.

Salads and Slaws

For a refreshing side, coleslaw is a popular choice to accompany battered fish. You can opt for a traditional coleslaw or experiment with variations like a corn and tomato salad or a cilantro-lime coleslaw. If you're looking for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a mustard dressing can also complement the dish nicely.

With these ideas in mind, you can create a delicious and well-rounded meal centered around battered fish.

Frequently asked questions