Air Fryer Battered Fish: Can You Do It?

Battered fish is a beloved dish, but it's not always convenient or healthy to deep-fry it. Air fryers offer a solution to this problem, but can you really put battered fish in an air fryer? The answer is yes, but there are some important steps to follow. Firstly, the fish fillets should be thick enough so they don't dry out during cooking. Secondly, a thick batter is key; dredging the battered fillets in flour before air frying helps create a coating that will stay put. Finally, spritzing or spraying the coated fish with oil is essential to ensure even cooking and to prevent the flour from drying out. With these tips, you can enjoy crispy, flaky, and buttery beer-battered fish straight from your air fryer!

What is the best type of fish to use?

When it comes to choosing the best type of fish for your air fryer, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a fish with a firm texture that can hold up to the air-frying process without falling apart. Some popular options include cod, tilapia, catfish, pollock, hake, haddock, or even salmon. These fish have a meaty texture that works well with the breading or batter and can be cut into fillets or strips.

Another consideration is the thickness of the fish fillets. For air-frying, it's best to choose fish that are at least 1-inch thick, or even thicker if you can find them. This is because thinner fillets may overcook or dry out by the time the coating becomes crispy. Thicker fillets will stay moist and flaky on the inside while the exterior develops a nice golden crust.

Finally, you'll want to ensure your fish is thoroughly defrosted if using frozen fillets. Allow them to thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight, or use the quick-thaw method by submerging the sealed package in a bowl of ice water for an hour or until thawed. Starting with dry fillets is also key, as any excess moisture can cause the breading to become soggy instead of crispy.

With these factors in mind, you can select the best type of fish for your air fryer, and enjoy delicious, crispy fish without the mess and calories of deep-frying!

How to get the batter to stick to the fish?

Battering fish for the air fryer can be tricky as the batter tends to run off the fish. Here are some tips to help you get the batter to stick to the fish:

Dry the Fish

Use paper towels to blot away any excess moisture on the fish fillets. This is an important step as water repels batter, and the batter will not stick to slippery fish.

Dredge the Fish in Flour or Cornstarch

Coating the fish in a layer of flour or cornstarch will help to soak up any leftover moisture and create an even surface for the batter to stick to.

Double-Dip the Fish

After coating the fish in batter, dip it in flour again. This creates a thicker coating that will stay put in the air fryer.

Spray the Fish with Oil

Generously spritz the battered fish with oil. This helps the flour cook properly and prevents it from drying out and sticking to the air fryer.

Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer

Make sure there is enough space between the pieces of fish in the air fryer. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and cook the fish evenly.

Choose the Right Oil Temperature

If the oil is too cold, the batter will absorb too much of it and become soggy. If it is too hot, the batter will cook too quickly and separate from the fish. Aim for an oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F.

Use Mustard in the Batter

Mustard acts as a binder and helps the batter stick to the fish. It also adds a tangy flavor to the dish.

Shake Off Excess Batter

Before placing the fish in the air fryer, shake off any excess batter. This prevents the coating from becoming too heavy and soggy.

What temperature and how long should the fish be cooked?

The cooking time and temperature for battered fish in an air fryer depend on the type of fish and the thickness of the fillets. For example, the cooking time for frozen battered fish fillets is around 12 minutes, whereas fresh battered fish may take up to 15 minutes.

For frozen battered fish, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C). It is recommended to cook the fish for 12 minutes or until lightly browned, flipping it halfway through. If the pieces of fish are larger or smaller, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Check the fish at the eight-minute mark and then every four minutes to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature of the fish should reach at least 145°F (63°C) to be fully cooked.

For fresh battered fish, preheat the air fryer to 380°F to 390°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, but it typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes. Check the fish for doneness after 10 minutes and cook for an additional one to two minutes if needed. The fish is ready when the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the model of the air fryer and the size of the fillets. Therefore, it is recommended to keep a close eye on the fish during the cooking process to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

What to serve with battered fish?

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

Classic Sides

For a traditional take on this dish, serve your battered fish with a generous portion of thick-cut chips and a couple of slices of lemon. If you're looking to make your meal more substantial, other potato dishes such as French fries, Tater Tots, or scalloped potatoes will also pair nicely.

Salads

A refreshing coleslaw is always a great choice to accompany fried fish. You can either make your own or buy it from your local supermarket. Other types of salads, such as a potato salad, will also work well with the dish.

Condiments

Condiments are a must-have when serving battered fish. Tartar sauce is a classic choice and pairs perfectly with the fish. You can easily make it at home or buy it from the store. Other options include seafood sauce, garlic aioli, and regular mayonnaise.

Burgers

You can also use the battered fish fillets to make delicious fish burgers. Combine the fish with tartar sauce, cheese, and a brioche bun, and feel free to get creative with additional toppings.

Other Sides

If you're looking for some more unique sides to serve with your battered fish, here are some options:

• Air fryer asparagus and mushrooms
• Oven-baked fries or potato wedges
• Cheesy mashed potato cakes
• Hot sauce

How to reheat the fish?

If you have any leftover battered fish, you can easily reheat it in the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 350°F and place the fish inside for around five minutes. This will ensure the fish is heated through without drying it out.

If you are reheating frozen battered fish, increase the time to around 10 minutes. You can also thaw the fish in the fridge first and then reheat it in the air fryer for a shorter time.

If you are reheating a large amount of fish, you may need to reheat it in batches to ensure even heating.

You can also reheat battered fish in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the fish on a baking sheet. Heat for around 10 minutes, or until the fish is heated through.

Another option is to reheat the fish in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Place the fish in the skillet and heat for a few minutes on each side, until warmed through.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the fish to ensure it has reached a safe temperature before consuming.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and flaky battered fish!

Frequently asked questions