If you’ve ever had the pleasure of indulging in a plate of fish and chips, we’re sure what comes to mind is the delicious flavors and crunchy texture that make this dish so irresistible. But have you ever stopped to think about the reason behind the use of beer in the batter? This month, one of your favorite restaurants, Nadeau’s Subs, is diving into the magic and science behind the use of beer, along with a little bit of history of this beloved dish!
A Taste of History
The roots of beer-battered haddock can be traced back to the traditional British “fish and chips” phenomenon. This dish has been a staple in British culinary culture for centuries, providing comfort to generations. While the exact origin of fish and chips still remains debated, it’s believed that the dish gained popularity in the working-class neighborhoods of England during the 19th century.
The Birth of Beer-Battered Fish
As fish and chips continued to evolve, cooks discovered that battering fish with a mixture of flour, salt, and liquid created a delicious crispy coating. While water was the initial choice of liquid, chefs and restaurants eventually incorporated beer to enhance the flavor and texture. The carbonation in the beer contributes to the lightness and crispiness of the batter, making it a perfect combination for tender haddock fillets.
Why Beer? The Science Behind It
Using beer in the batter has a wide range of benefits that contribute to its flavor. The bubbles in beer create a light, airy batter that puffs up when fried. This results in a crispy exterior! In addition to texture, the unique flavors of beer enhance the taste of the batter, pairing excellently with the fish.
Now, when we get down to the real science of this dish, the liquid in beer helps form the gluten in the batter, which contributes to its adhesive properties. This adherence results in a coating that clings to the fish while frying, creating the crunchy shell that we know and love. The carbonation in beer also helps regulate the oil temperature during frying. This prevents the batter from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy.
Visit One of Your Favorite Restaurants, Nadeau’s Subs!
If you’re craving fish and chips after this blog, we encourage you to stop in at one of our five locations today to indulge in this beloved dish! If that’s not your style, no worries! We have plenty of other options on our menu to satisfy your tastebuds. In the meantime, we look forward to dining with you!