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Homemade Fish Fingers in Air Fryer: A Delightful British Treat

Fish fingers are a quintessential British favourite, delighting both children and adults alike. Traditionally enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a side of chips, these crispy delights can be made healthier and just as delicious by using an air fryer. This article will guide you through the steps of making homemade fish fingers that are not only more nutritious but also incredibly easy and quick to prepare.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Fish Fingers

1. Control Over Ingredients: By making your own fish fingers, you can choose the freshest fish, avoiding any preservatives or artificial additives often found in store-bought versions.

2. Customisation: You can experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your palate, tailoring the flavour to perfection.

3. Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means you can achieve that coveted crunch without the need for excessive oil, resulting in a lighter dish.

Ingredients

For the Fish Fingers:

• 400g white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or pollock)
• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g breadcrumbs (panko or normal)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs (e.g. parsley or dill) for seasoning

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Tartar sauce or your favourite dipping sauce
• Optional sides: Chips, peas, or a fresh salad

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start by patting your fish fillets dry with a kitchen towel. This step ensures that the breading sticks well. Cut the fish into finger-sized strips, approximately 2.5cm wide and 10cm long. Season the fish strips with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you prefer.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Arrange three shallow bowls for the breading process:

• Bowl 1: Plain flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until they are frothy.
• Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs with herbs or spices if desired.

Step 3: Coat the Fish Fingers

Dip each fish strip into the flour, shaking off any excess, followed by the beaten egg, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs. Make sure they are well covered for the crispiest result. Place the breaded fish fingers on a plate or a baking tray as you go.

Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring that the fish fingers cook evenly and become beautifully crispy.

Step 5: Air Fry the Fish Fingers

Lightly spray or brush the basket of your air fryer with oil to prevent sticking. Place the fish fingers in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The fish fingers should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done.

Step 6: Serving

Once cooked, remove the fish fingers from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve with lemon wedges and your preferred dipping sauce. Pair them with chips and peas for a classic British meal or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Making homemade fish fingers in an air fryer is not only a fun cooking project but also results in a healthier, tastier alternative to the frozen variety. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a scrumptious dish that captures the essence of British comfort food. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or a delightful snack, these fish fingers are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and dive into this delicious homemade treat!