To anyone living north of the English Channel, Fridays were always about the fish and chip supper. Families across the nation would sit down in front of the telly (never at the dinner table) with cushions on their laps and a big plate (or sometimes eaten straight out of the paper) of battered fish and chips – the fatter and unhealthier, the better. It signalled the start of the weekend: a soap opera on the TV, the prospect of football on Saturday afternoon and shopping trips into town. Fish and chips isn’t just a meal, it’s a British institution.
Here in Dubai on a Thursday night, the gents still look forward to celebrating the first goal, while the ladies have their eye on fitness classes and mall trawls. But, one element that's missing is that official start to the weekend, that happy-trigger, the feelgood factor that two days of fun are on the way and that’s where a portion of white fish and some fried potato come into play.
Ending the working week with a tasty fish and fries dish is more than just about taste and enjoyment, it’s psychological. Hearing the crunch as you plunge your knife into the fish batter and tasting the sting of vinegar in your throat as you douse it on the chips is a sign that the week’s troubles are over.
There’s so much more to the fish and chips ritual than food. An unwritten law states that while the cod is cooking, one must prepare two slices of bread and butter per person, a mug of tea (cups and saucers will not be entertained), a wedge of lemon and a pile of mushy peas. Fish and chips is simply not complete without these crucial side dishes.
And don’t forget the condiments: a jar of tartare sauce, salt, pepper and tomato sauce are all welcome at this party. Whether you’re on your own or feeding a family of five, make sure you start every weekend with fish and chip night - there’s no feeling quite like it.
Best of British
When the craving strikes, it's time for fish 'n' chips
AED 26.50 / Each
Albert Bartlett rooster homestyle chips 1.2kg
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