Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe – Hungarian Chef

by Rebecca Novak published on February 4, 2025

When serving fish and chips, consider bright and zesty side dishes that complement the dish without overpowering it. 

Fresh salads are a fantastic choice. A citrus arugula salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the fried fish. Another idea is a classic coleslaw with a tangy dressing, which adds crunch and freshness.

You might also think about a lightly spiced tartar sauce. With a hint of capers and pickles, it’s a perfect match for the flaky fish. For drinks, a crisp lager or terra firma Chardonnay can enhance the meal’s flavors. Both options refresh the palate and harmonize beautifully with the dish.

Now that we have those tasty pairings out of the way, let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Best Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe

Let’s face it—nothing matches the satisfying crunch of a well-fried piece of fish. When I first encountered Bobby Flay’s approach to this traditional dish, I was intrigued. 

As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I adore recreating classic recipes. But I also appreciate when those recipes come with a dash of originality.

Bobby Flay takes fish and chips beyond the ordinary. With his emphasis on high-quality ingredients and robust flavors, he breathes new life into a dish often seen as humble fare. 

Not only does he spotlight the main attraction—the fish—but he also intertwines it with other incredible elements like saffron tartar sauce and vibrant, crispy chips that tantalize the tongue.

Curious? Stay tuned! I’ll share every detail about making Bobby Flay’s fish and chips, so you can impress your family and friends.

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What is Bobby Flay’s Fish and Chips?

Bobby Flay’s fish and chips diverges from the standard dish you might find in a pub. His recipe incorporates elements that give it both a gourmet touch and a hearty nature that is comforting and familiar. 

The crispy battered fish, served with golden, crunchy chips, relies on the freshest ingredients. Flay also emphasizes the need for a delightful dipping sauce, creating a meal that’s not just filling but also packs a punch in terms of flavor.

But it doesn’t stop there. His recipe introduces innovative methods to achieve the perfect texture while ensuring that every bite of fish remains light and flaky. 

You will find halibut fillets that are impeccably fried, panko breadcrumbs that provide a flaky crust, and fresh herbs that come together to offer both flavor and aesthetic appeal.

Why You’ll Love Bobby Flay’s Fish and Chips

There’s something utterly satisfying about fish and chips. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia or the comfort it brings. Bobby Flay amps up this dish’s excitement factor, and here’s why you’ll adore it:

1. Crispy Texture: Using a cold beer batter, the fish achieves a majestic crunch without becoming heavy. It’s light, yet the crispiness will draw you in for more.

2. Bright Flavors: The use of saffron in the tartar sauce adds a distinct taste, elevating the usual dip to something memorable. Combined with the fresh parsley and zesty lemon, each bite bursts with flavor.

3. Quality Ingredients: Flay insists on using fresh halibut, a fish that is not only sustainable but holds up well during frying. You’ll appreciate knowing you’re enjoying a meal prepared with care and responsibility.

4. Versatility: You can adjust the recipe to meet dietary needs without losing its essence. Whether gluten-free or looking for a vegetarian side option, this recipe lends itself well to various adaptions.

5. A Social Dish: Fish and chips are inherently social. They’re a fun meal to enjoy with friends, ideal for a casual gathering, or even as a midweek family dinner.

The combination creates a dish worth preparing and sharing. The excitement of preparing something special transforms an everyday evening into a memorable culinary event.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Bobby Flay’s Fish and Chips

Now we’re ready to gather our essentials! Here’s what you’ll need:

Saffron Tartar Sauce

  • 6 cornichons, drained and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • Pinch of saffron threads
  • 2 heaping tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced shallots for added depth
  • Zest of 1 lemon and juice of half a lemon

Sherry Vinegar Tartar Sauce and Chips

  • 4 large Russet or Idaho potatoes, unpeeled, cut into wedges
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 quart vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup aged sherry vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for acidity in the sauce
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped

Fried Parsley (optional)

  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, thoroughly cleaned and dried
  • Kosher salt, for seasoning

Fried Fish

  • 6 halibut fillets (6 ounces each)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups cold beer (such as Stella Artois) + more if necessary
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Canola oil for frying (as needed)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups rice flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for extra seasoning
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley leaves, clean and dry, for garnish

Get ready for a cooking adventure that will leave your kitchen smelling fantastic!

Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Flay’s Fish and Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the cornichons, white wine vinegar, saffron threads, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, capers, red onion, parsley, shallots, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  2. Mix the ingredients well until fully combined.
  3. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the fish and chips. The flavors deepen as it sits.

Step 2: Create the Chips

  1. Slice the potatoes into wedges. Aim for uniformity in size for even cooking.
  2. Soak the wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, which results in a crispier texture.
  3. Drain and dry the potatoes using a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Fry the Chips

  1. Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully drop in the potato wedges, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. They should bubble vigorously upon entry.
  3. Fry the chips until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips from the oil, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with kosher salt and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Prepare the Fried Fish

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt. Add the cold beer gradually until you have a smooth batter.
  2. Pat the halibut fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat oil in a fryer or deep pot again, maintaining that 350°F (175°C) temperature.
  4. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Coat with the panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  5. Fry the fillets in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. When fish is cooked, it will flake easily with a fork.
  6. Transfer cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up oil. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes: Essential Tips to Enhance Your Fish and Chips

Here are some valuable tips for achieving success with Bobby Flay’s fish and chips:

  • Choose Fresh Fish: Using the freshest halibut or whatever fish you choose ensures the best taste and texture.
  • Control the Temperature: Investing in a thermometer can help maintain ideal frying temperatures, preventing greasy results.
  • Chill the Batter: Keeping your batter chilled before frying can lead to a crispier crust.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Always fry in small batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy fish.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs into the dusting flour for a unique flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Should you have leftovers (though they might vanish quickly), store them properly. Store the fried fish and chips in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. 

To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes everything rubbery.

Easy Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish should be just as exciting as making it! Here are some fantastic suggestions:

  1. Classic Malt Vinegar Drizzle: A splash of malt vinegar is traditional and adds another layer of tang.
  2. Crunchy Fresh Salad: Pair your meal with a light, crunchy green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness of the fried fish.
  3. Homemade Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw brings texture and crunch, balancing flavors beautifully.
  4. Lemon Wedges: Serve wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon over the fish enhances its flavor and brightness.
  5. Red Wine or Beer: Either a crisp white wine or a light lager works well. They refresh the palate with every bite.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Bobby Flay’s Fish and Chips?

If you’re looking to switch things up or use what you have on hand, here are five substitute ideas:

  • Cod or Pollock: If halibut isn’t available, cod or pollock can easily replace it. Both maintain a lighter profile, perfect for frying.
  • Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier alternative to regular potatoes, sweet potatoes provide a deliciously sweet flavor that still holds texture when fried.
  • Almond or Coconut Flour: For a gluten-free alternative, opt for these flours instead of all-purpose flour. They can yield a unique flavor.
  • Capers Substitute: If you don’t have capers, try chopped green olives or finely chopped dill pickles for a similar tartness.
  • Vegetarian Take: Use eggplant or zucchini, cut into thick slices, as tasty substitutes for fish. They can be dredged and fried in a similar method.
Easy Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe

Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe

Let’s face it—nothing matches the satisfying crunch of a well-fried piece of fish. When I first encountered Bobby Flay’s approach to this traditional dish, I was intrigued. 
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Bobby Flay Fish And Chips Recipe
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 1758kcal
Author: Contributor One

Equipment

  • Deep fryer

Ingredients

Saffron Tartar Sauce

  • 6 cornichons drained and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • Pinch of saffron threads
  • 2 heaping tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed and chopped
  • 1/2 small red onion finely minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced shallots for added depth
  • Zest of 1 lemon and juice of half a lemon

Sherry Vinegar Tartar Sauce and Chips

  • 4 large Russet or Idaho potatoes unpeeled, cut into wedges
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 quart vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup aged sherry vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for acidity in the sauce
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon finely chopped

Fried Parsley (optional)

  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves thoroughly cleaned and dried
  • Kosher salt for seasoning

Fried Fish

  • 6 halibut fillets 6 ounces each
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups cold beer such as Stella Artois + more if necessary
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Canola oil for frying as needed
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups rice flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for extra seasoning
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley leaves clean and dry, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce

  • In a medium bowl, combine the cornichons, white wine vinegar, saffron threads, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, capers, red onion, parsley, shallots, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Mix the ingredients well until fully combined.
  • Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the fish and chips. The flavors deepen as it sits.

Step 2: Create the Chips

  • Slice the potatoes into wedges. Aim for uniformity in size for even cooking.
  • Soak the wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, which results in a crispier texture.
  • Drain and dry the potatoes using a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Fry the Chips

  • Heat the vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Carefully drop in the potato wedges, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. They should bubble vigorously upon entry.
  • Fry the chips until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips from the oil, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with kosher salt and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Prepare the Fried Fish

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt. Add the cold beer gradually until you have a smooth batter.
  • Pat the halibut fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
  • Preheat oil in a fryer or deep pot again, maintaining that 350°F (175°C) temperature.
  • Dip each fish fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Coat with the panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Fry the fillets in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. When fish is cooked, it will flake easily with a fork.
  • Transfer cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up oil. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Here are some valuable tips for achieving success with Bobby Flay’s fish and chips:
  • Choose Fresh Fish: Using the freshest halibut or whatever fish you choose ensures the best taste and texture.
  • Control the Temperature: Investing in a thermometer can help maintain ideal frying temperatures, preventing greasy results.
  • Chill the Batter: Keeping your batter chilled before frying can lead to a crispier crust.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Always fry in small batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy fish.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs into the dusting flour for a unique flavor profile.

Nutrition

Serving: 955g | Calories: 1758kcal | Carbohydrates: 214g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 77.1g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 2093mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the tartar sauce in advance?

Yes! The flavors deepen and meld when the tartar sauce sits in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

2. Can I bake the fish and chips instead of frying?

Yes! You can achieve a crispy texture by baking. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), coat the fish and chips similarly, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

3. How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?

You can introduce a milder fish, reduce the spice in the batter, and pair the dish with ketchup for dipping—a favorite among kids!

4. What kind of beer should I use?

A light lager works best because it creates a light batter. You can also experiment with pale ales if you prefer a stronger flavor.

5. How long can I freeze cooked fish and chips?

For best quality, consume frozen fish and chips within two months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen, adjusting the time as necessary.

6. Are there any vegan alternatives?

Yes! For a vegan take, try using a firm tofu coated in a similar batter, and meanwhile, substitute the tartar sauce with a vegan mayo.

Conclusion

Bobby Flay’s fish and chips is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that combines comfort with culinary creativity. 

Paying homage to a classic while introducing fresh twists, this recipe promises to be a hit whether you’re gathering friends for a casual dinner or seeking to impress at a Sunday lunch.

Armed with this guide, you are all set to create a stunning plate that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. Enjoy each crunch and the blend of flavors with your loved ones. 

So fire up that stove, pour yourself a drink, and get excited about bringing a twist on this classic to life. Happy cooking!

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Author Profile
Rebecca Novak, Registered Dietitian & Chef

Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more

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