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Homemade Fish Sticks: A Nostalgic Treat Made Simple

There’s something wonderfully comforting about fish sticks. Traditionally a staple in British households, they evoke fond memories of childhood dinners and seaside holidays. While the frozen variety is quick and convenient, making fish sticks at home is not only easy but also elevates this beloved dish to a whole new level of flavour and texture. Here’s how you can create your own homemade fish sticks that are crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.

Ingredients

To make approximately four servings of homemade fish sticks, you will need:

• 400g of fresh white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or pollock)
• 100g of plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g of breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work especially well for a crunchy texture)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Cooking oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (to serve)

Method

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by rinsing the fish fillets under cold water and then pat them dry using kitchen paper. Cut the fillets into uniform strips, approximately 2-3cm wide. This ensures even cooking.

2. Set Up Your Dipping Stations: In three separate bowls, prepare your breading stations:

   • In the first bowl, place the plain flour mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika.
   • In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
   • In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs mixed with lemon zest. The lemon zest adds a fresh flavour that perfectly complements the fish.

3. Coat the Fish: Take a piece of fish and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is entirely covered. Repeat this process for all fish strips.

4. Cooking: You can either bake or fry your fish sticks. For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 200°C (fan oven) or 220°C (conventional oven). Place the coated fish sticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and lightly spray or drizzle them with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through until golden brown and cooked through.

   If you prefer the traditional method, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the fish sticks into the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Once cooked, transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

5. Serve: For an authentic British touch, serve your homemade fish sticks with a side of mushy peas, tartar sauce, or simply a wedge of lemon for squeezing. They also pair wonderfully with homemade chips for a comforting and hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Fish Sticks

• Choose Fresh Fish: The quality of fish will significantly affect the taste of your fish sticks. Look for sustainably sourced and ideally wild-caught options.

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumbs. Dill, parsley, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can add a delightful twist.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the fish sticks in advance and keep them in the fridge or freezer. If freezing, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Homemade fish sticks are not only delicious but also an enjoyable cooking experience that brings back the charm of classic British fare. By making them from scratch, you can customise flavours and ensure a fresher, healthier meal for the whole family. So next time you’re in the mood for a nostalgic dish, whip up a batch of these homemade delights, and relish the taste of nostalgia right at home. Enjoy your cooking!