The Ultimate Guide to Making Authentic British Fish and Chips: A Recipe from Ben Mervis’s ‘The Book of British Food’

Renowned food writer and historian Ben Mervis unveils his latest culinary masterpiece, ‘The Book of British Food’, a comprehensive guide featuring 550 easy-to-follow recipes. To celebrate its release, he shares an exclusive recipe for the quintessential British dish, fish and chips. This article delves into the history of this iconic food, exploring its origins and the key ingredients that contribute to its unique flavour profile. Get ready to experience the true taste of British culinary tradition with this step-by-step guide.

Ex-Fish and Chip Shop Worker Reveals Insider Secrets: Avoid Fried Beef Burgers!

A former fish and chip shop employee has shared surprising insights into the popular British takeaway, revealing that chips are used to clean the oil after cooking battered products and that fried beef burgers are best avoided. Jordan Luxford, who worked at various chippies on the south coast of England, including Wimbledon, also highlighted the extensive preparation involved in preparing fish, chips, and sauces before opening time.

According to Luxford, the chips help remove smaller batter particles that cannot be removed by simply sieving the oil, ensuring that the oil remains clean and the chips are cooked with a crispy coating. While the former Wimbledon chef has no qualms about deep-frying traditional favorites like cod, haddock, and sausages, he advises customers to avoid fried beef burgers, recommending they opt for freshly cooked items instead.

To ensure freshness, Luxford suggests ordering items that are not displayed under the lights in glass cases and requesting fresh preparation if desired. The amount of preparation required for fish and chip shops is often underestimated, with shops dedicating hours to preparing potatoes and other ingredients for the Friday night rush.

UK’s Best Fish and Chip Shops: London Eatery Claims Top Spot

The UK is home to a vast number of fish and chip shops, but not all are created equal. According to a ranking based on Google, TripAdvisor, and Instagram data, there are 12 shops that stand out from the rest. Surprisingly, it’s a London eatery that has claimed the top spot, namely The Fish Lounge in Brixton Hill. Other top-rated shops include East Coast in Musselburgh, Scotland, and several establishments in Leeds and Scotland. The Fry Awards, an official ranking system, also recognizes top fish and chip takeaways across the UK, with London’s Ainsworth’s Fish & Chips making it into the top five for 2024.

Oban: A Coastal Scottish Haven for Fish and Chips and Gateway to Highland Adventures

The picturesque coastal town of Oban in Argyll and Bute, known as the ‘gateway to the Highlands,’ boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a blend of tourist appeal and authentic local life. It serves as a hub for exploring the Hebrides, including the ancient rainforest of Lismore and the tranquil Isle of Coll. While the town is popular with tourists seeking their Scottish heritage near ancient forts, it maintains its charm and functionality year-round. Visitors can savor delectable fish and chips, as Oban holds a spot among the top eight fish and chip shops in the UK. Aside from its culinary delights, Oban offers a range of attractions, including dining at the Olive Garden Italian eatery on the docks or the Taj Mahal curry house, admiring the panoramic views from the dockside Oban Inn, and exploring the historic Oban Distillery, known for its single-malt whiskey. The town serves as a departure point for ferries to the Hebrides, making it an ideal base for further adventures in the Scottish wilderness.

Scroll to Top