Welcome to a British Classic Reimagined for Keto
Craving the comfort of a quintessentially British meal but following a keto lifestyle? Look no further! Our Keto Fish and Chips with Turnip Fries is a game-changer, delivering all the crispy, savory goodness you love with none of the carb-heavy guilt. This recipe is a perfect testament to the versatility of keto cooking, proving that you can enjoy your favorite dishes while staying true to your low-carb, high-fat dietary goals.
Imagine biting into a piece of succulent fish, encased in a golden, crispy almond flour coating, paired with crispy turnip fries that offer the perfect balance of softness and crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced, aligning with the keto diet’s macronutrient ratios. It’s a comforting meal that will satisfy your cravings and support your health journey.
The Story Behind The Dish
As a lover of classic comfort food, I’ve always had a soft spot for the traditional fish and chips. However, when I embraced the keto lifestyle, I knew I had to find a way to enjoy this favorite without the carbs. That’s when I decided to create this Keto Fish and Chips with Turnip Fries recipe, a dish that’s close to my heart and kitchen.
It’s a recipe born out of necessity and creativity, using almond flour for a low-carb, gluten-free batter that crisps up beautifully in the oven. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of almond flour complements the fish without overpowering it, making it a star ingredient for keto-friendly coatings. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats and protein, which are essential on a ketogenic diet.
The turnip fries are a revelation for those who miss the starchy side of the classic fish and chips. Turnips, with their low net carb content and high fiber, are an excellent potato substitute. They roast up to be wonderfully crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, providing a satisfying crunch that’s hard to beat. Not to mention, they’re a great source of vitamin C and other nutrients, making them a smart addition to any meal.
Mastering The Method
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of creating this masterpiece. The key to perfecting the Keto Fish and Chips with Turnip Fries lies in the preparation and cooking technique. Starting with the fish, ensure that your cod fillets are thoroughly patted dry. This step is crucial for the almond flour mixture to adhere properly, resulting in that desirable crispy coating.
When coating the fish, take the time to press the almond flour mixture onto the fillets gently. This extra bit of attention ensures a more even and substantial crust. As for the turnip fries, cutting them into uniform shapes is more than just aesthetics; it ensures that they cook evenly. And don’t skimp on tossing them with olive oil and seasonings — this is what gives them their delectable flavor and crispness.
While the fish and turnip fries are in the oven, resist the urge to turn them too often. Letting them bake undisturbed allows the heat to work its magic, creating a golden-brown crust on the fish and caramelization on the turnip fries. Trust the process, and you’ll be rewarded with a meal that’s both visually appealing and mouthwateringly delicious.
Variations to Spice Up Your Meal
Herb-Infused Fish Coating
Enhance the flavor profile of your fish by incorporating fresh or dried herbs into the almond flour mixture. Try adding dill, parsley, or chives for a fragrant twist. These herbs not only add depth to the flavor but also come with their own set of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Spicy Turnip Fries
If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder onto your turnip fries before roasting. The spiciness will add an exciting kick to each bite, and capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, is known for its metabolism-boosting effects.
Cheesy Almond Flour Crust
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, mix some grated parmesan cheese into the almond flour coating. The cheese will melt slightly and crisp up during baking, creating a rich and savory crust that’s irresistible.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs and Preferences
Understanding the need for flexibility in the kitchen, especially when adhering to a keto diet, here are some substitutions that can help tailor this dish to your preferences:
Flaxseed Meal for Almond Flour: If you have a nut allergy or simply want to try something different, flaxseed meal can be a great alternative to almond flour. It’s low in carbs and high in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthful and keto-friendly option.
Avocado Oil for Olive Oil: For a higher smoke point and a different nutrient profile, consider using avocado oil instead of olive oil. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Different Fish Varieties: While cod is a classic choice, feel free to use other types of fish like haddock, pollock, or even salmon. Just be mindful of the varying cooking times and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the turnip fries and fish coating ahead of time, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to bake them just before serving.
Q: Is this dish suitable for freezing?
A: The coated, uncooked fish can be frozen and baked from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. However, the turnip fries are best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I use a different type of oil?
A: Yes, any keto-friendly oil with a high smoke point, like coconut oil or avocado oil, will work well for this recipe.
Q: Are there any dips that go well with this dish?
A: A homemade keto tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice complements the fish and turnip fries beautifully.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Keto Fish and Chips with Turnip Fries
Equipment
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Shallow dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets 6 ounces each / 170 grams each
- 1 cup almond flour / 96 grams
- 1 tsp paprika / 2 grams
- ½ tsp garlic powder / 1.5 grams
- ½ tsp salt / 3 grams
- ¼ tsp black pepper / 0.5 grams
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil / 15 ml
Turnip Fries
- 4 medium turnips / 600 grams
- 2 tbsp olive oil / 30 ml
- 1 tsp sea salt / 5 grams
- ½ tsp ground black pepper / 1 gram
- ¼ tsp paprika / 0.5 grams
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy.
- Dip each cod fillet first into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the almond flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is flaky and the coating is golden.
- Peel the turnips and cut them into fry-shaped sticks.
- Toss the turnip sticks with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Spread the turnips out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.
