Cooking can be a fun and educational activity for children, allowing them to learn about different ingredients, develop fine motor skills, and discover new tastes.

Learning About Ingredients: Children can learn about different types of fish and the nutritional benefits they offer, such as being a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe can encourage children to try new foods and flavours. Paprika adds a mild spice, and different breadcrumb types can alter the texture.

Prepare the Fish:

• Cut the fish fillets into finger-sized strips (about 2 cm wide). Ensure an adult handles the knife to keep things safe.

Set Up the Breading Station:

• Place the flour on a plate and season with a little salt and pepper.
• Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl.
• Place the breadcrumbs on another plate, mixing in the paprika if using.

Coat the Fish Fingers:

• Dip each fish strip into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
• Next, dip the floured fish strip into the beaten egg.
• Finally, roll the fish strip in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat with all the fish strips.

Cook the Fish Fingers:

• Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. An adult should supervise this step.
• Once the oil is hot, add the fish fingers to the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the fish fingers from the pan and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil.

Serve:

• Serve the fish fingers hot with a side of peas, sweetcorn, or a fresh salad, and perhaps some homemade tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.