Guy Lyons

Fish & Chips

Feb 20, 2026

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs white fish fillets, cut into long strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dredging fish
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning fish
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning fish
  • 1 cup cold light beer (or club soda/sparkling water)

For Serving

  • Hot cooked fries (fried, baked, or air fryer)
  • Tartar sauce, ketchup, or fry sauce
  • British malt vinegar

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a deep pot with 1 to 2 inches of oil to 350 F.
  2. Pat fish dry, season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour.
  3. In a bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Whisk in cold beer until smooth and slightly thick; add a little more beer if needed.
  5. Dip fish strips in batter, coating completely.
  6. Fry in small batches for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp.
  7. Transfer to paper towels; keep warm in a 200 F oven if needed.
  8. Serve with fries, tartar sauce, and malt vinegar.

Notes

  • Best fish options: cod, pollock, haddock, catfish, perch, or mahi-mahi.
  • Keep oil between 350 F and 375 F for crisp batter.
  • Do not overcrowd the pot, or the coating can turn soggy.

Source: Tastes Better From Scratch - Fish and Chips