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Light and Flaky Air-Fried Fish: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Dish

Fish and chips is a beloved staple of British cuisine, renowned for its crispy batter and flaky white fish. However, traditional deep-frying can often lead to a heavy meal loaded with calories and unhealthy fats. Fortunately, the air fryer has emerged as a brilliant kitchen appliance that can provide all the crunch without the guilt. In this article, we explore how to prepare light and flaky air-fried fish that retains all the flavour and texture of this classic dish, while offering a healthier alternative.

Choosing the Right Fish

When it comes to selecting fish for air frying, fresh fillets of cod, haddock, or pollock are excellent choices. These white fish varieties are not only flaky and mild in flavour, but they also cook beautifully and maintain their texture in the air fryer. If you’re feeling adventurous, other options such as tilapia or even salmon can also work well, depending on your taste preferences.

Preparing the Fish

Start by ensuring your fish fillets are thoroughly defrosted if they are frozen. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is crucial for achieving that coveted crispiness. Next, season the fish with salt, pepper, and any other spices that tickle your fancy. A sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika can add a lovely depth of flavour.

The Batter that Makes it Special

A light and crispy batter is key to replicating that authentic fish-and-chips experience. Here’s a simple recipe to create a perfect batter for air frying:

Ingredients:

• 100g plain flour
• 75g cornflour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 150ml sparkling water (adjust as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, cornflour, baking powder, salt, and smoked paprika.
2. Gradually whisk in the sparkling water until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter. The bubbles in the sparkling water will help create a light texture during cooking.

Breading the Fish

Once your batter is ready, you can start coating the fish. Dip each fillet into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Then, place the battered fish onto a plate while you prepare the air fryer.

Air Frying the Fish

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). This step is important for achieving an even cook and crisp finish. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.

Carefully place the battered fish fillets in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the tops of the fillets with a bit more cooking oil to encourage browning.

Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your light and flaky air-fried fish with a generous portion of homemade chips for a guilt-free take on fish and chips. You can also pair it with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For an extra British touch, a drizzle of tartar sauce is always a welcome accompaniment.

Conclusion

Air-fried fish can provide a satisfying and healthier alternative to deep-fried options without sacrificing flavour or texture. By utilising the air fryer and a light batter, you can enjoy a classic British dish that is both delicious and nutritious. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a lovely fish dinner—healthy eating never tasted so good!

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