Weekend tradITION of Deep-Fried Fish and Potatoes Stirs Controversy Among British Residents in Spanish Towns
In the charming coastal town of Nerja, an enterprising chef has created a unique fusion of British comfort food and Spanish flair. María González, the proprietor of Taberna La Luna, introduced the concept of "paella-battered cod" to her patrons, which has since become a popular dish.
This culinary trend, now known as "Fish and Chips Fridays," originated in El Rincon, a village near Malaga, and has since spread like wildfire. In some villages, it has grown into full-blown festivals, complete with live music, chip-eating contests, and "batter-offs."
The success of Fish and Chips Fridays at Taberna La Luna led to other bars in nearby villages adopting the trend. Many small businesses, particularly those in villages, have seen a significant economic boost due to this innovative offering.
The trend is not limited to Nerja and El Rincon. Cabo Roig on the Costa Blanca, specifically at the Marinasol restaurant, was among the early participants offering this special. The result is a heartwarming blend of British comfort food and Spanish flair, transforming sleepy village squares into bustling hubs of cross-cultural feasting.
The trend has not been without controversy. Some traditionalists argue that fish and chips are "anglicising" Spain's sacred tapas culture. However, the debate has sparked lively discussions on various platforms, with posts ranging from playful memes to earnest pleas to preserve tapas traditions.
Despite the debate, the trend has created jobs for local staff to master the art of the perfect chippy batter. The first Fish and Chips Friday was a success, with the restaurant selling out in two hours. Bars like Bar El Puerto in Torrevieja, owned by Javier Ruiz, have seen a similar surge in popularity. Before the trend, Fridays were quiet, but are now booked solid.
To cater to the British clientele missing their traditional fish and chips, some bars have hired British expats to teach them how to make proper mushy peas. María noticed her British customers missing fish and chips from home and decided to offer it at her bar. She enlisted the help of retired chef Dave Thompson to perfect a crispy batter recipe.
Innovation has not stopped at the basic fish and chips offering. Some bars have added Spanish twists, such as serving "hake à la Andalucía" or "chorizo-chippified chips." The hashtag "#FishChipsEspaña" is trending on TikTok with over 46 million videos, reflecting the widespread popularity of this unique culinary fusion.
The economic impact of the trend has led some British expats, who number over 250,000 in Spain, to feel a sense of belonging. This cross-cultural culinary revolution is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of shared experiences and the joy of good food.
