Fish & Chips With A Secret Ingredient

Step 1: Cut potatoes into 1cm wide batons, then put in a steamer over a saucepan of simmering water and steam for 12 t0 15 minutes or until tender and then spread out on an oven tray in a single layer to cool and dry.

Step 2: Meanwhile, combine aioli, onion, dill and lemon juice in a serving bowl, then set aside.

Step 3: Slice fish into 4cm wide strips and pat dry with paper towel.

Step 4: Pour oil into a large, wide heavy-based saucepan until oil comes 6cm up side of pan and put over a high heat until 180C on a cook's thermometer and fry potatoes in 2 batches for 4 minutes or until golden and then drain on paper towel and keep warm.

Step 5: Pour sparkling wine, salt and ice into a large bowl and add the plain flour, 1/4 cup at a time, mixing in gently after each addition, until a loose batter forms.

Step 6: Dust fish pieces in rice flour and then dip into batter and drain off excess, then fry in the hot vegetable oil, in 3 batches for 4 minutes or until just cooked through and crisp.

Step 7: Drain on a plate lined with paper towel.

Step 8: Pour malt vinegar into a misting spray bottle and spray over battered fish.

Step 9: Divide fish and chips among serving plates and serve with cornichons, picked onion and aioli sauce.