What is Served with Fish and Chips: Classic Accompaniments

Fish and chips, a beloved dish that has its roots in the UK and continues to be a global comfort food, is a meal often served with a variety of delicious accompaniments. Whether you’re enjoying a classic fish and chip shop experience or preparing it at home, the right side dishes and condiments can elevate the meal to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore what is commonly served with fish and chips and introduce you to both traditional and modern options.

Mushy Peas – A Traditional Accompaniment

One of the most iconic side dishes served with fish and chips is mushy peas. This dish is a staple in British chip shops and has become a classic pairing with crispy cod or any other fried fish. The peas are typically cooked until soft and then mashed with a bit of butter, salt, and sometimes a touch of mint for added flavor. The creamy texture of mushy peas provides a perfect contrast to the crispy fish and fries, making them a crowd favorite. Some prefer their mushy peas with a hit of flavour from mint or other seasonings.

Tartare Sauce – The Creamy Classic

No plate of fish and chips is complete without a generous dollop of tartare sauce. This rich, creamy condiment is made from mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and lemon juice, offering a zesty and tangy flavor that complements the mild taste of battered fish. Many chip shops serve tartare sauce alongside fish and chips as a staple, and it’s considered the go-to sauce for fried fish. While tartar sauce can vary slightly in texture and taste from shop to shop, it always provides that creamy balance that pairs perfectly with the crispy fish.

Onion Rings – A Crispy and Flavorful Side

Onion rings are a popular option to serve with fish and chips, adding a crunchy, savory contrast to the dish. These golden, crispy rings are often coated in a light batter and deep-fried to perfection, making them the perfect accompaniment to your meal. The onion rings provide a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the fries and the richness of the battered fish.

Pickled Onions – Tangy and Crisp

For those who enjoy a more tangy flavor, pickled onions are a traditional accompaniment that is often served with fish and chips in chip shops. These small, crunchy onions are soaked in vinegar and spices, offering a sharp contrast to the fried fish and chips. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the batter, balancing out the meal with a hit of flavor that adds complexity to every bite.

Baked Beans – A Hearty Addition

Baked beans are another popular option, often served as a side dish in British chip shops. The savory sweetness of the beans complements the crispiness of the fish and chips, creating a more filling and satisfying meal. The thick, tomato-based sauce in which the beans are cooked adds a deep flavor profile that contrasts nicely with the lighter texture of the fish. A portion of beans alongside your crispy cod adds both warmth and substance to the dish.

Curry Sauce – A Bold and Spicy Twist

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, curry sauce is a must-try accompaniment to fish and chips. This savory sauce made from a mixture of curry powder, spices, and gravy adds a comforting depth to the meal. The heat and aromatic spices provide a bold contrast to the fried fish and fries, turning a classic dish into something with a bit more kick. Many chip shops in the UK offer curry sauce as an optional topping for a spicy twist on the traditional fish and chips.

Battered Sausage – A Heartier Option

For a more substantial meal, battered sausage is a delicious option to serve alongside fish and chips. The battered sausage is essentially a sausage that’s coated in the same batter used for the fish, creating a crispy, golden exterior. It’s a favorite in many chip shops, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the meal. Whether you prefer it alongside your fish or as a separate dish, the battered sausages provide a savory, meaty element to the meal.

Pea Salad – A Fresh Contrast

While not as common as other sides, pea salad can provide a refreshing, lighter contrast to the heaviness of the fried fish and chips. A simple salad of fresh peas, herbs, and sometimes a light dressing can add a crisp, fresh texture to your meal. This vibrant side brings a burst of color and a fresh, healthy touch to an otherwise indulgent dish.

Lemon Wedges – A Zesty Kick

A wedge of lemon is often served alongside fish and chips to add a bright and tangy kick. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the battered fish enhances the flavor and adds a zesty freshness that complements the fried exterior and soft fish inside. Lemon wedges are simple but effective, bringing out the natural flavors of the fish while providing a refreshing burst.

Mozzarella Sticks – A Fun, Cheesy Side

For those who like a cheesy accompaniment to their fish and chips, mozzarella sticks can offer a fun and indulgent twist. These crispy, golden-brown sticks of melted mozzarella cheese are typically deep-fried and make for a rich, comforting side dish. The combination of cheese and crispy batter adds a new flavor profile to your meal, making it a favorite among those who crave something extra cheesy.

Dill Pickle Spears – A Tangy Crunch

Dill pickle spears are another fantastic addition to fish and chips, especially for those who enjoy a tangy crunch. The sharp acidity and refreshing crispness of the pickles offer a nice balance to the rich, greasy fried food. The dill pickle spears are typically served on the side, providing a refreshing break from the heaviness of the batter and adding another layer of flavor to the meal.

Green Salad – A Light, Fresh Option

If you’re looking for a healthier or lighter option to balance out the richness of fish and chips, a simple green salad is a great choice. A mix of fresh leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula, can offer a crisp, fresh contrast to the greasy, fried elements of the dish. Adding a light dressing can enhance the flavors of the salad, providing a refreshing break between bites of fish and fries.

Pickled Jalapeños – A Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy a bit of spice with their meal, pickled jalapeños can add an exciting twist to fish and chips. The tangy vinegar and spicy kick from the jalapeños complement the richness of the batter, creating a balance of heat and flavor. The spicy acidity of the jalapeños can also cut through the oiliness of the fried food, providing a flavorful contrast.

Checkout: How to Reheat Fish and Chips

Spam Fritter – A Quirky Addition

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, a Spam fritter can be a fun and quirky addition to your fish and chips meal. Similar to battered sausage, Spam fritters are slices of Spam that are coated in batter and deep-fried. The result is a salty, savory snack that pairs well with the fish and chips, offering a nostalgic and satisfying option for those who enjoy a bit of variety.

Deep-Fried Mars Bar – A Sweet Treat

For those with a sweet tooth, a deep-fried Mars bar is an indulgent and popular dessert that can often be found in chip shops. This treat involves a Mars chocolate bar coated in batter and deep-fried to create a crispy shell around the gooey, melty chocolate inside. It’s a fun, decadent way to finish off your meal, offering a sweet contrast to the salty, savory fish and chips.

More About: How Many Calories Are in Fish and Chips?

Buttered Roll – A Simple Side

Sometimes, the best complement to fish and chips is something simple like a buttered roll. A soft roll, lightly buttered and served on the side, provides a comforting carb to soak up any leftover sauce or batter. It’s a straightforward, humble side that never fails to please, offering an additional texture and flavor to your meal.

Chocolate Bar – A Sweet Finish

If you’re looking for a classic way to end your fish and chip experience, a chocolate bar is a timeless choice. Whether it’s a simple bar of chocolate or a fun variation like a Deep-fried Mars bar, the sweetness of chocolate is the perfect contrast to the saltiness of the fish and fries. It’s a classic option for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Read More: When is National Fish & Chip Day?

Conclusion

The beauty of fish and chips lies not just in the fried fish and golden fries, but also in the variety of sides and condiments that can be served alongside it. From classic staples like mushy peas and tartare sauce to quirky additions like Spam fritters and a Deep-fried Mars bar, there’s a side or condiment to suit every taste. Whether you enjoy a bit of spice with pickled jalapeños, prefer something comforting like onion rings, or want to balance the meal with a light green salad, the options are endless. So the next time you’re digging into a plate of fish and chips, don’t forget to add one (or more!) of these delicious sides to make the meal even more memorable!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Served with Fish and Chips