Think of fish and chips, and chances are England comes to mind. It is the quintessential fast food, as it is more frequently eaten as takeaway, or ordered “to go,” as Americans would say.
Fried fish and chips did not initially develop as a dish together. While there is, as usual, historical disagreements as to who did what when, it is widely accepted that the French invented the chip, “pommes des frites,” or French fries, as they are called in the United States. They are all fried potatoes, but the only real difference is in the cut. British chips tend to be a thicker cut slice. The credit of this dish is most often given to the French because U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, who spent much time in Paris, mentioned “potatoes deep-fried while raw, in small cuttings” in his writings of the early 1800s.
Fried fish originated in Northern England. Or maybe in East London. Historians disagree again. Both Lancashire, in the north, and London laid claim to being the first to invent this famous culinary combination. The chips were already particularly popular in Lancashire, and other towns in the industrial north, as they were an inexpensive staple food.
In 1839, in his novel ‘Oliver Twist’, Charles Dickens referred to a “fried fish warehouse.” We can look, again, to the future American president, Thomas Jefferson. In a letter written at the end of the 18th Century, he related eating “fried fish in the Jewish fashion,” on a visit to London. Battered fish had been brought to England by Jewish refugees from Spain 200 years earlier.
Near Oldham, Lancashire, a Mr. Lees sold fish and chips from a little hut, kind of like a modern day street vendor. After obtaining some success, he opened a shop across the way, in 1863, which had a sign denoting it as the first fish and chip shop. London has its own story. Joseph Malin opened a fish and chip shop in 1860.
Fish and chips grew in increasing popularity. It was most commonly wrapped in yesterday’s newspaper, and was easily eaten on the go. The fish and chip shops were so popular, and provided such a sense of comfort, it was one of the few foods that were not rationed during World War II.
Nowadays, hamburgers, pizza, and Chinese food have surpassed fish and chips in sales. Fish supplies aren’t as plentiful as they once were, so price is more of a factor than previously. Additionally, concerns about eating healthy have also turned some away from this deep-fat fried delight. If one considers that fish is an excellent source of protein, is is still healthier than most other quick and convenient choices. Fish and chips have been around for 150-plus years, it isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon.
Regardless, fish and chips, soused with malt vinegar, is one of the most enduring dishes in Britain. Cod is the fish used most often, but other white fish, such as haddock or pollack can be used, too.
Landon Blackman is a freelance writter with a passion for fish and chips. If you are looking for some of the best fish and chips be sure to visit the best Gastro Pub in Toronto, Factory Girl Restaurant.