There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of fish and chips. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in nostalgia and makes you feel like everything is right in the world. But the first time I tasted Fish and Chips Napoli, it completely changed my perspective.
Let me take you back to a warm summer evening in Naples, Italy. I was wandering the historic streets near Spaccanapoli, drawn by the sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aromas coming from a tiny family-run eatery. I ordered what I thought was just a local twist on the British classic. But what landed on my plate was something truly special — golden-fried fish, crisp on the outside, buttery-soft inside, nestled next to rosemary-infused chips with a subtle hint of garlic and a tomato-based dipping sauce that added just the right touch of tang. I was hooked.
That night, I made it my mission to recreate this gem at home. And after a few experiments, I found the perfect balance between classic and Napoli-style. Now I’m sharing this incredibly easy and crowd-pleasing recipe with you — trust me, you won’t believe how simple it is!
Contents
What Makes Fish and Chips Napoli Unique?
Traditional fish and chips are delicious in their own right, but the Napoli twist adds a layer of Italian soul. Imagine the fresh Mediterranean influence — fragrant herbs, tomato flavors, and a pinch of Italian attitude. It’s not just a meal, it’s a vibe.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 500g white fish fillets (like cod or haddock), skin removed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup sparkling water (cold)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
For the Chips (Fries):
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Maris Piper work great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
For the Napoli Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and sugar to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chips
- Peel and cut the potatoes into thick fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat dry the potatoes thoroughly.
- Toss them with olive oil, rosemary, chopped garlic, and a bit of salt.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and roast the chips for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside.
Step 2: Make the Napoli Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato passata, oregano, and a pinch of salt and sugar.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep pan to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sparkling water to form a smooth batter.
- Pat the fish dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Dip each fillet into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Carefully lower into the hot oil and fry for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fish and Chips Napoli
- Cold batter is key — it creates a crispier coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer — it lowers the oil temperature and makes the fish greasy.
- Use sparkling water or beer for extra-light batter.
- If you’re short on time, air-frying or pan-frying the chips also works beautifully.
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of grated Parmesan to the chips before baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
(Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before battering and frying.
What type of potatoes are best?
Yukon Gold or Maris Piper are perfect — they hold their shape and get wonderfully crispy.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free flour blend and double-check your baking powder is gluten-free too.
Final Thoughts: Give It a Try!
There’s something magical about recreating a recipe that once stole your heart on a foreign street. Fish and Chips Napoli is a dish that brings together the best of two worlds — the crispy comfort of the UK and the vibrant flavors of southern Italy. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or something special for friends, this dish will become one of your favorite go-tos.
Go ahead, give it a try. And if you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your photos, or tell me how you added your own twist. Maybe a sprinkle of chili flakes in the sauce? Or swapping cod for sea bass?
Cooking is about joy, creativity, and connection — and this recipe is a perfect place to start.
