Main dish

Guinness Beer Battered Fish

Try this Guinness beer battered fish the next time you are craving some good old-fashioned fish and chips for dinner!

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beer battered fish

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beer battered fish

Remember that golden flash of crispy batter encasing the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth fish? Well, add some rich and flavorful Guinness, and it's about to become your family's new Friday night fave.

Now, I know that deep frying can sound daunting, but trust me, this recipe is as easy as chucking ingredients into a bowl and letting the magic of bubbles work its wonders.

You can whip up the batter in 5 minutes (Guinness adds a malty depth you won't find in other beers, trust me!), fry up the fish while the kids do their homework, and BAM! Dinner is served, golden and glorious.

And the best part? Leftover batter can be reused to make salmon bites and onion rings (or what my son calls "golden doughnuts of joy”). I’ll be honest, frying can something be messy, but it will be well worth it when you bite into the crispy and crunchy exterior of this flaky fish. 

Yes, it's fried, but there are a few swaps that will make it a bit kinder to your waistline. Swap out the regular oil for avocado or peanut oil, and you've got a healthier option that doesn't compromise on taste.

Plus, fish is naturally packed with protein and omega-3s, so you're feeding your family goodness with every bite.

So, ditch the takeout menus and give this Guinness Battered Fish a whirl. It's a recipe that's as easy as it is delicious, as nostalgic as it is healthy, and guaranteed to bring smiles and golden goodness to your family table. 

beer battered fish

FAQs

How do I store Guinness Beer Battered Fish?

To store beer-battered fish, we recommend storing it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any extra moisture and keep the batter crisp for up to 4 days. You can reheat in an air fryer or in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Guinness Beer Battered Fish?

You can freeze this recipe, but it’s important to ensure an airtight seal to prevent freezer burn. Before freezing, let the fish cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Squeeze out as much of the air as possible, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. 

What can I serve with Guinness Beer Battered Fish?

Serve with french fries for a classic fish and chips experience, or serve alongside coleslaw or mushy peas. You could also serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a more balanced meal. 

How long does it take to cook the fish?

A single piece of fish that is about 1 inch thick will take between 5-8 minutes to cook. The fish floating in the oil will indicate that it is done. 

Can you reuse the oil?

While you technically can reuse the oil, it will likely carry the fishy taste with it. 

What is the best type of fish to use for this recipe?

We recommend using a neutral white fish for this recipe, such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or even monkfish. 

Can I make this dish vegan?

While the traditional recipe isn't vegan, you can easily adapt it! Simply swap the fish for firm tofu or oyster mushrooms, cut into thick strips, and season with Old Bay seasoning for a fishy taste. 

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Recipe

Thick pieces of cod make the best beer-battered fish for homemade fish and chips! But my Guinness-inspired batter adds a complex, malty flavor, making it more interesting than traditional beer batter.

Course:
Main dish
COOKing TIME:
8 minutes
Total TIME:
83 minutes
CUISINE:
American
PREP TIME:
75 minutes
SERVINGS:
2

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh or frozen cod filets
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp cajun seasoning
  • 2 cups Guinness 
  • 4 cups canola oil
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp relish
  • ½ tsp chopped dill
  • Lemon wedges

Ingredient Swaps

  • Substitute the canola oil for avocado, peanut or grapeseed oil. 
  • When purchasing fish, look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification to ensure it is sustainably sourced. 
  • Swap out the fish for oyster mushroom or tofu for a plant-based option. 
  • Instead of all-purpose flour, you can opt for whole-wheat flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option. 

Instructions

  1. Using a thermometer, heat the oil in a deep pot to 375°
  2. While the oil is warming, pat the fish dry with a towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, add 1 ½ cups of flour, baking powder, and cajun seasoning.
  4. Gradually add the Guinness, whisking until smooth.
  5. Add the remaining flour to a plate and dredge each piece of fish. Shake off the excess.
  6. Drop the floured fish into the batter and coat evenly, letting any excess drop back into the bowl.
  7. Gently place the battered fish into the hot oil. Do this in batches, as you don't want to overcrowd the oil. 2-3 pieces at a time is standard. 
  8. Fry for about 4 minutes, then flip the fish over with a slotted spoon.
  9. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the batter turns golden brown. 
  10. Spoon the fish out of the oil and place on paper towels to drain off excess oil. 
  11. Season with sea salt and serve.
  12. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, relish, dill, salt, and pepper to serve on the side for dipping.

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