Beer Matters

Fish and chips, as most of us know, is an English style dish steeped in history. The vast majority of us prefer to go out for this specialty rather than making this dish themselves. This is understandable due to the steps required and the inevitable cleanup that does not only include the kitchen surfaces and utensils. For those of you who are enticed to take on this challenge at home, this article will provide you with some helpful tips when deciding on where to begin.

Traditional fish and chips as we know it today started back in the mid 1800’s, and in the 1930’s England had a total of 35,000 “chippies”. Different types of mild flavoured white fish such as cod and haddock are typically the fish of choice for this dish. Malt vinegar and tartar sauce are often served alongside the fish and chips.

Unlike most of our articles today we are addressing the question of what beer to choose for beer battered fish, and if it really makes a difference to the final product. For this test we have kept the type of oil, temperatures and the only difference in the batter was the type of beer in hopes to keep variables to a minimum. For the purposes of this test we used a pilsner, ale and a port style beer. After testing all three batters there was certainly a difference. For a lighter flavoured batter, use a lighter beer. From our experience the pilsner offered the most pleasurable dish, however we do admit that personal preference could very well be at play. The port beer offered a stronger flavour profile that was not as palatable. A general rule is to use the beer you or your guests prefer. As a note to the cook, a separate pot of boiling vinegar will assist with deodorization.

Beer battered fish and chips can be a very enjoyable meal when going out with friends or family. The lingering scent of cooking oil, the various steps and not to mention potential dangers (a pot of hot oil on the stove) can lead some to avoid making this food choice at home. If by chance you have yet to find a good fish and chips shop and do decide to make it yourself the beer you select will in fact alter the taste of the finished product. Foods of all kinds can be made at home: all it takes is patience, effort and diligence.