Fish & Chips from Friendly's features crispy, golden-battered white fish fillets paired with crunchy, golden fries, offering a classic combination of tender, flaky seafood and savory, salty potato wedges.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Sheet pan (for draining)
- Paper towels or wire rack
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Fish spatula
- Plate for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod or haddock)
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold club soda or beer
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When selecting white fish fillets for your Fish & Chips from Friendly's, cod or haddock are ideal choices due to their tender, flaky texture and mild flavor. Russet potatoes work best for fries because of their starchy nature, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior when fried. Using cold club soda or beer in the batter helps create a light, airy coating that crisps beautifully during frying. Ensure your vegetable oil is heated to the appropriate temperature to achieve golden, crunchy fish and perfectly cooked fries without excess oil absorption. Your Fish & Chips from Friendly's copycat menu will closely match the original's crispy and savory profile when these ingredient tips are followed precisely.
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into fries; soak in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Pat fish fillets dry; season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add club soda or beer; whisk to create a smooth batter.
- Drain and dry potato fries thoroughly.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry potato fries in batches until lightly golden; drain on a sheet pan lined with paper towels or wire rack.
- Dip fish fillets in prepared batter, coating evenly.
- Carefully lower battered fish into hot oil; fry until golden and crispy, about 4–6 minutes.
- Drain fried fish on paper towels or wire rack.
- Increase fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C); fry fries a second time until deeply golden and crisp.
- Drain fries and season with salt.
- Plate fish and chips; serve hot.
Substitution
Fish & Chips from Friendly's copycat menu delivers crispy, golden-battered white fish fillets alongside crunchy, golden fries, replicating the beloved classic perfectly. You can substitute club soda with beer to enhance batter crispiness and flavor or opt for gluten-free flour for dietary needs without sacrificing texture. If a deep fryer isn't available, frying the fish in a heavy skillet with enough oil to submerge the fillets works well. Russet potatoes can be swapped with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich alternative. Always drain the fried fish and fries on paper towels or a wire rack to maintain maximum crunchiness.
Tips
Make sure to soak your potato fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and achieve extra crispiness. Pat both the fish fillets and fries completely dry before frying; moisture can cause oil splatters and soggy results. Maintain oil temperature precisely, using 350degF (175degC) for the first fry and 375degF (190degC) for the second, to ensure the perfect golden crisp texture. When dipping fish into the batter, coat evenly but avoid letting excess batter drip off to prevent clumping and uneven cooking.
Nutritions
Fish & Chips from Friendly's provides a nutrient-rich meal featuring protein-packed white fish fillets like cod or haddock, which are low in fat and high in omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. The russet potato fries contribute carbohydrates for energy, along with dietary fiber and potassium, although frying increases their calorie and fat content. The batter, made with flour, club soda or beer, and spices, adds flavor but also contributes additional calories and carbohydrates. Your meal offers a balance of macronutrients, but frying makes it higher in fats and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store leftover fish and chips in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb excess moisture, which will help keep your fries and fish crispy. When reheating, use an air fryer or oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore crunch without drying out your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, you can substitute the white fish fillets with skinless salmon or catfish for a different flavor and texture. Instead of club soda or beer, try using sparkling water with a dash of lemon juice for a lighter batter. You may also bake the fries at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, as a healthier alternative to deep frying. Your fish and chips will remain crispy and delicious with these simple adjustments.
Allergies
Fish & Chips from Friendly's contains potential allergens such as fish, gluten from the all-purpose flour, and may have traces of wheat. If you have seafood or gluten allergies, you should exercise caution when consuming this dish. Ensure to check with the restaurant about cross-contamination risks to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
Fish & Chips from Friendly's restaurant stand out for their perfectly crispy batter and tender, flaky fish fillets that deliver a satisfying contrast in textures. The golden fries are seasoned to enhance flavor without overpowering, creating a balanced and comforting combination. This menu item embodies classic flavors that appeal to seafood lovers and casual diners alike, making it a rewarding dish to replicate at home. Your effort to make a copycat version ensures you enjoy the iconic taste with the freshness and customization suited to your preferences.