Halibut Fish and Chips: A Classic British Dish with a Modern Twist

by Oleg Nikitenko November 03, 2024

Halibut Fish and Chips: Recipe

Fish and chips is a beloved British dish that combines crispy, golden-brown battered fish with thick-cut fries, or "chips." While traditionally made with cod, using Pacific halibut brings a fresh, flavorful twist to this classic. Known for its mild flavor and firm texture, halibut is an ideal choice for fish and chips, creating a dish that's crispy on the outside and tender inside. This halibut fish and chips recipe provides a delicious, contemporary take on a timeless favorite, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.

For the best results, start with high-quality halibut. Explore Global Seafoods’ fresh Pacific halibut fillets to elevate your fish and chips to the next level.

Why Halibut is Perfect for Fish and Chips

Halibut has a unique, mild flavor and firm texture that hold up beautifully to frying, making it perfect for fish and chips. Its delicate taste enhances the flavor of the batter, while the firmness of the fillet keeps the fish from falling apart during cooking. Halibut is also rich in lean protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fish and chips without sacrificing flavor.

"Halibut's mild taste and firm texture make it one of the best fish for a variety of dishes, including fried and baked recipes," says renowned chef Jamie Oliver.

With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create restaurant-quality halibut fish and chips at home.

Health Benefits of Halibut Fish and Chips

By using Pacific halibut, this modern take on fish and chips delivers key nutritional benefits:

High in Protein: Halibut is a lean protein source, supporting muscle growth and providing energy.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These heart-healthy fats reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and promote cardiovascular health.
Loaded with Essential Nutrients: Halibut contains potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins, which support overall health and energy.

This dish is a great way to enjoy a healthier version of fish and chips without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients for Halibut Fish and Chips

To make delicious halibut fish and chips, gather the following ingredients:

For the Halibut:

1 lb Pacific halibut fillets – cut into portions (try Pacific halibut fillets for the best quality)
1 cup all-purpose flour – for coating and batter
1 cup cold sparkling water – creates a light, crispy batter
1 teaspoon baking powder – for extra crispiness
Salt and pepper – to taste

For the Chips:

2 large russet potatoes – peeled and cut into thick slices
Salt – for seasoning
Vegetable oil – for frying

Optional Tartar Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
Salt and pepper – to taste

Step-by-Step Recipe for Halibut Fish and Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Cut the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thick slices. Soak in cold water for 15-20 minutes to remove excess starch.
Blanch the Potatoes: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 300°F. Blanch the potatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes until soft but not brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Batter for the Halibut

Prepare Dry Coating: In a bowl, mix ½ cup of flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Create the Batter: In another bowl, combine the remaining flour, baking powder, and sparkling water. Whisk until smooth. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable. Adjust with more sparkling water if needed.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Halibut

Heat the Oil: Increase the oil temperature to 350°F.
Coat the Halibut: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly coat each piece in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the batter, ensuring an even coating.
Fry the Halibut: Carefully place the battered halibut fillets in the hot oil. Fry for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Fry the Chips

Increase Oil Temperature: Raise the oil temperature to 375°F for the second fry.
Fry the Potatoes: Fry the blanched potatoes again for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

How to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce

A classic tartar sauce adds the perfect tangy flavor to halibut fish and chips. This quick recipe is easy to prepare:

Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill pickle relish, salt, and pepper.
Adjust to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve: Serve alongside your halibut fish and chips for a flavorful dipping sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Halibut Fish and Chips

Choose Fresh Halibut: Fresh fish makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Global Seafoods’ fresh Pacific halibut fillets are an excellent choice for this recipe.
Use Cold Sparkling Water: Cold sparkling water in the batter ensures a light, crispy coating.
Double-Fry the Chips: Double-frying the potatoes gives them a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, just like restaurant-quality chips.
Drain Excess Oil: Place the fried fish and chips on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy and light.

Nutritional Information for Halibut Fish and Chips

This homemade halibut fish and chips recipe provides a healthier take on the traditional dish. Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 25 grams
Fat: 18 grams (including healthy fats from halibut)
Carbohydrates: 45 grams
Omega-3s: High, promoting heart and brain health

With high protein and Omega-3 content, this dish is a nutritious option for seafood lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Halibut Fish and Chips

1. Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe?
Yes, frozen halibut works well. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

2. What type of potatoes should I use?
Russet potatoes are ideal for chips as they’re starchy and fry up crispy.

3. Can I bake the halibut instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the battered fish in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Keep in mind, the texture won’t be as crispy as frying.

4. How can I keep the batter crispy?
Using cold sparkling water and frying at the right temperature (350°F) helps keep the batter crispy.

5. What’s a good side dish to serve with halibut fish and chips?
Serve with coleslaw, a simple green salad, or mushy peas for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Halibut fish and chips bring a fresh, flavorful twist to a classic British dish, perfect for those who enjoy crispy, golden fish paired with perfectly cooked chips. Using fresh halibut, cold sparkling water in the batter, and double-frying the potatoes ensures this dish is restaurant-quality and sure to impress. For high-quality halibut that delivers superior flavor, Global Seafoods offers a variety of Pacific halibut options, including fillets, steaks, and cheeks, perfect for your next cooking adventure.

For more seafood recipes, cooking tips, and inspiration, visit Global Seafoods’ YouTube channel for a wide range of culinary ideas.