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Crispy Homemade Air Fryer Fish Sticks: A British Delight

Fish sticks, a beloved classic in British households, evoke memories of seaside holidays and childhood dinners. Traditionally deep-fried, they can often end up greasy and heavy. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative that maintains that delightful crunch, crispy homemade air fryer fish sticks are the perfect solution. Quick to prepare and easy on the waistline, these fish sticks are bound to become a family favourite.

Ingredients

For the Fish Sticks:

• 400g white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock work beautifully)
• 70g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs if you prefer extra crunch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for added flavour

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Tartar sauce
• Peas or your favourite dipping sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish

Start by slicing your white fish fillets into bite-sized strips, about 2-3cm wide. Pat the fish dry with kitchen paper—the drier they are, the better the coating will adhere and the crispier the end result. Season the fish strips with salt, pepper, and any other additional seasoning you fancy.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station:

• In the first bowl, add the plain flour.
• In the second bowl, beat the eggs until combined.
• In the third bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs. If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, they will give you a lovely crunch.

3. Coat the Fish

Take each piece of fish and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, coat the fish in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Repeat this process until all fish strips are coated.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F). This ensures that your fish sticks cook evenly and become perfectly crisp.

5. Air Fry the Fish Sticks

Arrange the breaded fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd them as this can cause them to steam rather than crisp up. Spray them lightly with cooking oil to enhance the crunch factor. Cook for around 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure an even golden colour.

6. Check for Doneness

The fish sticks are ready when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Use a fork to check that the fish flakes easily—this is a sign that they’re cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your crispy homemade air fryer fish sticks with a wedge of lemon for squeezing over, and a dollop of tartar sauce for that iconic pairing. For a classic British touch, serve alongside mushy peas or a side salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Crispy homemade air fryer fish sticks are a splendid option for a quick weeknight meal, a satisfying snack, or even an impressive dish for entertaining guests. With their pleasing crunch and delectable flavour, they are sure to delight palates of all ages. This healthier version allows you to savour the nostalgia of a traditional dish without the extra calories. Enjoy the taste of the coast without ever stepping foot on the beach!