Beer-Battered Fish In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Beer-battered fish is a popular dish, but can you make it in an air fryer? The answer is yes, but it's a little tricky. The key is to make sure the batter is thick and then dredge the fish in flour to create a coating that will stay put when you air fry. This method helps to prevent the batter from running off the fish and through the holes in the bottom of the air fryer basket. You also need to make sure the fish fillet is nice and thick so it doesn't overcook in the time it takes to brown the outside. Finally, don't forget to spritz the coated fish generously with oil to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

The best type of fish to use

Additionally, it is recommended to pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel before coating them in the batter. This helps the batter adhere better to the fish and ensures a crispier final product.

How to prepare the fish

Preparing the fish is the most important part of this recipe. First, make sure you have a thick, white fish fillet such as cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia. The thickness of the fillet is important because it needs to be thick enough that it doesn't dry out or overcook in the air fryer.

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Then, dip the fish fillets into a batter made from a combination of beer, egg, and flour. Let any excess batter drip off.

Next, dip the fish fillets into a flour mixture. This flour mixture should be seasoned with spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Make sure the fish fillets are completely coated in the flour mixture.

Finally, spritz or spray both sides of the coated fish fillets with oil. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the flour cooks properly and helps to create a crispy texture.

How to make the batter

How to Make the Beer-Battered Fish

Ingredients

• Light beer
• All-purpose flour
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Corn starch
• Smoked paprika
• Fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)

Method

• In a large bowl, add the beer, egg, and some flour. Whisk until a smooth batter forms. Place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill.
• In a separate bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, corn starch, paprika, and salt.
• Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.
• Dip each fish fillet into the beer batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Next, dip the battered fish into the flour mixture, gently pressing the flour onto the fish to ensure it adheres.
• Generously spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
• Place the coated fish fillets into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space around each fillet.
• Spray the tops of the fish fillets with cooking oil.
• Set the air fryer to 375-390°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and crispy.

How to cook the fish

Prepare the fish:

Firstly, pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Make sure to get thick fillets (at least 1-1.5 inches) so that the fish doesn't dry out in the air fryer. You can use any mild, firm, flaky white fish such as cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia.

Prepare the beer batter:

In a large bowl, combine the beer, egg, and flour. You can also add cornstarch and baking soda for a thicker batter. Whisk or stir until you get a smooth, thick batter. Season the batter with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to chill.

Dredge the fish:

Dip each fish fillet into the beer batter, making sure it's fully coated. Then, gently shake off any excess batter. After that, dip the fish into a shallow dish of seasoned flour (all-purpose flour mixed with your choice of seasonings) and coat all sides. You can also sprinkle any leftover flour on the fish and pat gently to help the flour adhere.

Prepare the air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to between 375-390°F. Generously spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the fish:

Place the coated fish fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap. Spray the tops of the fillets with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. You may need to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process and respray with oil.

Serve:

Remove the fish from the air fryer and serve immediately. Beer-battered fish goes well with tartar sauce, coleslaw, lemon wedges, malt vinegar, and French fries for a classic fish and chips meal.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and flaky air-fried beer-battered fish!

What to serve with the fish

There are many side dishes that pair well with beer-battered fish. Here are some options to serve with your air-fried fish:

Traditional Sides

• French Fries: A classic pairing with fried fish, especially when paired with a side of coleslaw. For an extra crispy texture, consider double-frying your fries.
• Peas: A traditional side in the British Isles, peas are a simple yet tasty addition to your meal. For a more sophisticated twist, try a glazed pea and potato dish with mint.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy side that balances out the heaviness of the battered fish. For an extra kick, add in some lime or lemon juice instead of vinegar.
• Hush Puppies: These deep-fried cornmeal balls are a must-have side, especially with catfish. They add a crunchy texture and are perfect for dipping in sauces.

Vegetable Sides

• Roasted Cauliflower: A simple and classic side that can be prepared with various spices and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
• Green Beans: Sautéed in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper, green beans offer a crispy and healthy option to accompany your fish.
• Corn and Tomato Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a colourful presentation. The addition of garlic and onion enhances the flavours and makes it a tasty companion to your fish.
• Fried Corn with Bacon: A hearty side where the sweetness of corn pairs perfectly with the savouriness of bacon. Adding herbs ties the flavours together seamlessly.

Starchy Sides

• Crispy Potato Wedges: A delicious alternative to French fries, these wedges are coated in olive oil and baked in the oven until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips: Homemade potato chips with the perfect balance of salt and vinegar. Adjust the seasoning to your liking for a flavourful snack.
• Cheese Grits: A creamy and comforting Southern staple made with corn that is sure to impress.
• Macaroni Salad: A creamy and tangy pasta salad that is a perfect make-ahead side dish to enjoy with your fish.

Salads and Dips

• Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad with Pesto: A refreshing salad with a combination of vegetables and a flavorful pesto dressing.
• Wedge Salad: A classic salad that goes well with fish, featuring fresh, crispy ingredients.
• Salsa: A unique dip with a hint of sweetness from peaches, spiced up with jalapenos or serranos for added heat.
• Tartar Sauce: A classic condiment for fried fish, similar to mayonnaise but with the addition of pickles and lemon juice for acidity.

Frequently asked questions