Mix flour and the ground black pepper in a bowl (often called seasoning the flour)
Pour in beer slowly, while whisking. Whisk continuously, until batter is smooth.
Dip food in the batter, allowing the excess to drip back into bowl naturally. Drop food straight into the deep fryer, while taking care not to splash the oil.
Fry until your food of choice is cooked. Fish usually take 2 to 3 minutes, but other things may take longer. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
Recipe Notes
Reader variations
Any beer works – Corona with snapper fillets is a reader favourite
If the batter feels too thin, add a little extra flour
Frequently Asked Questions
I can’t find “all-purpose flour” – what should I use?
All-purpose flour is the US name for what’s sold in New Zealand as plain flour – that’s what to use.
Why does my batter fall off the fish?
Dust the fish fillets in flour first before dipping them in the batter – it gives the batter something to grip.