Fish and chips became a staple of British working‑class meals in the late 19th century, offering an affordable, filling dish that could be eaten quickly. It grew into a national comfort food, often associated with seaside towns and Friday meals.

In Scotland, haddock is often preferred over cod, while in the North of England, malt vinegar is a common condiment. Some regions serve the chips with mushy peas, and in Wales, you’ll find a splash of lemon juice on the fish.

Typically the fish is battered and deep‑fried, placed on a paper‑lined tray with thick‑cut chips, a side of mushy peas, and a wedge of lemon. It’s often accompanied by malt vinegar, tartar sauce, or ketchup.

Fish and chips is a popular choice for casual family meals, Friday night dinners, and seaside holidays. It’s also a staple at community fairs and charity events across the UK.

The bacon‑infused breadcrumb coating adds a smoky depth that mimics the flavour of traditional deep‑fried fish without the excess oil. Baking keeps the fish moist while delivering a crunchy, flavourful crust.

Traditional fish and chips use fresh cod or haddock, plain flour for batter, and plain breadcrumbs for coating. In this recipe you can substitute the bacon with sun‑dried tomatoes, use stale bread instead of breadcrumbs, and replace cod with pollock or haddock for sustainability.

Avoid over‑mixing the breadcrumb mixture, which can make it too fine; don’t skip the flour dusting, as it helps the egg adhere; and be careful not to overcrowd the baking tray, which prevents the crust from crisping.

The breadcrumb‑bacon mix provides a crunchy texture with far less oil than a deep‑fried flour batter, reducing fat content while still delivering the satisfying crunch associated with classic fish and chips.

Yes, you can coat the fish and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. Store the baked fish in an airtight container; reheat in a 180 °C oven for 5‑7 minutes to retain crispness.

The YouTube channel Jamie Oliver focuses on approachable, family‑friendly cooking with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, quick techniques, and making classic dishes healthier for home cooks.

Jamie Oliver blends rustic British comfort food with modern twists, often swapping deep‑fried methods for oven‑baked or pan‑seared techniques, and he prioritises simplicity and nutrition over elaborate preparation, unlike some channels that stick to traditional heavy methods.

Jamie Oliver is well‑known for his versions of Shepherd’s Pie, Full English Breakfast, Roast Chicken, and his signature “Jamie's 15‑Minute Meals” that include quick takes on classics like Bangers & Mash and Sticky Toffee Pudding.