Frying Battered Fish: Air Fryer Vs Oil?

Air fryers are a great alternative to deep frying battered fish. The air fryer method is quicker, healthier, and easier to make than the traditional oven method. It is also a good option if you want to avoid the smell of frying. While it is possible to make battered fish from scratch and cook it in an air fryer, it is not recommended as it will likely make a mess. Instead, frozen battered fish or crumbed fish are better options as they will not create a runny coating.

How to get battered fish crispy in an air fryer

Yes, you can fry battered fish in an air fryer. Here are some tips to get your battered fish crispy:

Pre-preparation:

Before you start cooking, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your air fryer basket is not overcrowded. This is important because overcrowding can prevent the fish from crisping up and may lead to inconsistent cooking. It's better to cook in batches if you have a lot of fish to fry. Secondly, remove as much moisture from the fish as possible before coating it in batter. This can be done by patting the fish dry with paper towels. The aim is to get rid of any excess moisture, as too much moisture can cause the batter to become soggy.

Cooking:

When it comes to cooking, preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and the right temperature and airflow levels. The ideal temperature for cooking battered fish is around 380-400°F (180-200°C). Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fish fillets and the model of your air fryer, but on average, it should take about 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process. To get that extra crispiness, spray the fish with oil before placing it in the air fryer, and then again once or twice during the cooking process to prevent the batter from drying out.

Post-cooking:

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply put the fish back in the air fryer at 360°F for 2-3 minutes to retain its crispy texture.

Recipe:

For a simple recipe, you will need:

• 1 pound of fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon of onion powder
• ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
• 12 ounces of your favourite beer
• Pickled onions, lemon wedges, and tartar sauce for serving
• A pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Pat the fish dry with paper towels. In one bowl, mix 1 cup of flour with a pinch of the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beer and whisk until a smooth batter forms. Dip each piece of fish into the batter, coating it completely, and then dip it into the seasoned flour, gently pressing the flour to adhere. Spray the air fryer basket generously with oil, and place the fish inside. Set the temperature to 380°F and the timer for 12 minutes, checking once or twice during cooking to see if you need to spray more oil. Serve with your chosen sides and sauces.

The best type of fish for air frying

Air fryers are a great way to cook fish, and you can use a variety of fish fillets to make a delicious, healthy meal.

White, flaky fish such as cod, haddock, pollock, tilapia, halibut, and mahi mahi are all ideal for air frying. These types of fish are moderately thin, which means they will cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer.

You can also use other types of white fish such as sea bass, sole, or catfish, but as these fish have different thicknesses, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thicker fillets like tuna or swordfish are not recommended as they will take longer to cook.

Fresh or Frozen?

You can use both fresh and frozen fish fillets for air frying, but it is important to thaw frozen fish completely before cooking. This will help to prevent moisture from escaping during the cooking process, which could make the exterior less crispy.

Battering and Breadcrumbs

A light batter can be used, but it is tricky to get it to stick to the fish without the usual deep frying method. A double-dipping method can be used, where the fish is coated in batter and then dipped in flour to help the batter stick.

Breadcrumbs are a more popular option, with panko breadcrumbs being the preferred choice for a crispier finish. Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the finish won't be as crunchy. You can also make your own breadcrumbs at home.

Seasonings

A variety of seasonings can be used to add flavour to your fish. Popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with other spices such as curry powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips

• Dry the fish well with paper towels before coating and cooking to ensure a crispy exterior.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Spray the basket with a little oil before adding the fish to prevent sticking and improve colour.
• Flip the fish halfway through cooking for even browning and to ensure the fish cooks evenly on the inside.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the fish is fully cooked. The internal temperature should be at least 63°C (145°F).

Air frying is a convenient and healthy way to cook fish, and with a few simple tips, you can create a delicious, crispy, and flaky fish dish that the whole family will enjoy.

How to serve battered air-fried fish

Battered air-fried fish is a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried fish. It is best served hot with a side of tartar sauce and lemon wedges. You can also serve it with a refreshing coleslaw or potato salad. If you're feeling extra hungry, pair it with some thick-cut chips, French fries, Tater Tots, or scalloped potatoes.

For a more substantial meal, use the battered fish to make a delicious fish burger. Simply combine the fish with tartar sauce, cheese, and a brioche bun. You can also get creative and add your choice of toppings to the burger.

If you're looking for a lighter option, serve the battered air-fried fish with steamed vegetables or a salad. Some tasty side dish options include air fryer asparagus and mushrooms, oven-baked fries, or baked potato wedges.

Now, let's get into the details of how to serve battered air-fried fish:

Preparing the Battered Fish in an Air Fryer:

Before cooking, pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial, as too much moisture can result in a soggy coating. Next, set up a dredging station with three bowls: one for the flour mixture, one for the egg, and one for the breadcrumbs. You can season the flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, or simply season the fish on its own.

Dip the fish first in the flour, then the egg, and finally, the breadcrumbs. Make sure the fish is well-coated at each step. Place the breaded fish on a baking sheet and spray both sides with oil. Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually between 380-400°F (180-200°C), and cook the fish for about 10-15 minutes, flipping it halfway through.

Serving the Battered Air-Fried Fish:

Once the fish is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and serve it immediately. It is best enjoyed hot and crispy. As mentioned, tartar sauce and lemon wedges are classic accompaniments, adding a tangy and refreshing touch to the dish.

If you're serving the fish with chips or fries, prepare them according to your preferred method. For a healthier option, opt for oven-baked or air fryer fries. Don't forget to include some sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or steamed vegetables, to round out the meal.

With these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to enjoying a delicious and crispy battered air-fried fish meal!

The benefits of double dredging in flour

Yes, you can fry battered fish in an air fryer! For example, you can make beer-battered fish in an air fryer.

Now, onto the benefits of double dredging in flour. Double dredging in flour is a technique where you coat a food item in flour, then in an egg mixture, and finally in flour again before cooking it. This method has several advantages over single dredging:

Improved Texture and Consistency

Double dredging can result in a crispier and crunchier texture compared to single dredging. The flour helps to create a thicker and sturdier coating that holds up better during cooking, resulting in a more consistent final product.

Better Adhesion of Coating

The flour dredge acts as a sticky surface for the egg mixture to cling to, and the second flour dredge provides an even better surface for the final coating to adhere to. This process ensures that the outer layer of breadcrumbs or batter sticks more effectively and reduces the chances of it sliding off during cooking or when served.

Enhanced Flavour and Seasoning

Seasonings and spices are typically added to the flour during dredging. Double dredging exposes the food to these seasonings twice, intensifying the flavour and ensuring a more evenly distributed coating. This technique is especially beneficial when working with delicate foods like fish, where you want to enhance the flavour without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredient.

Moisture Retention

The flour coating helps seal in moisture, preventing the food from drying out during the cooking process. This is crucial for items like fish, which can easily overcook and become dry. Double dredging provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring the food remains tender and juicy on the inside while achieving the desired crispness on the outside.

Ease of Process

While double dredging may seem like an extra step, it can actually simplify the overall process. By creating a stronger adhesive surface, you may find that you need fewer eggs in your egg wash, and the coating process becomes faster and more efficient. Additionally, double dredging can help reduce the number of bowls and utensils needed, making cleanup easier.

The best substitute for beer in a beer-battered fish recipe

Yes, you can fry battered fish in an air fryer! The air fryer is great for quickly cooking battered fish to perfection. The batter cooks to be crispy, and the fish is deliciously hot.

Now, for the star of the show: the beer-battered fish. Beer is often used in fish batter, but it's not the only option for a light, crunchy texture. If you're looking for a substitute for beer in your beer-battered fish recipe, here are some alternatives that will give you equally delicious results:

Club Soda

Club soda is a perfect substitute for beer in fish batter recipes. The carbonation in club soda creates a "lift" effect, giving the batter a lighter texture. It also impacts the acidity, helping to avoid a tough, glutenous batter. Be sure to use a new bottle of club soda and keep it cold to maintain carbonation, which is crucial for that light and crispy texture.

Carbonated Beverages

Other carbonated beverages can also be used instead of beer. The key is to choose drinks with carbonation, as it is the bubbles that create the desired light and fluffy texture.

Ginger Ale

Ginger ale can be used as a substitute for beer in your fish batter, as suggested by a recipe creator in the comments section of an air fryer beer-battered fish recipe.

Non-Alcoholic Beer

If you want to avoid alcohol but still achieve a similar flavour profile, non-alcoholic beer can be a good substitute. It will provide a similar malty flavour without the alcohol content.

Water

While not the preferred option, water can be used in a pinch. One recipe reviewer mentioned that they achieved a crispier texture with straight water instead of club soda. However, another reviewer noted that water may not provide the same level of crispness as other alternatives.

So, there you have it! The next time you're craving beer-battered fish, don't fret if you don't have beer on hand. Experiment with these substitutes, and you might just find your new favourite way to prepare this classic dish.

Frequently asked questions