Why are fish and chips popular in England?
Fish and chips became popular in England in the 1800s as a cheap, filling and tasty meal for working people. Today, it remains one of the country's best-loved takeaway dishes, especially at the seaside.
Fried fish was introduced to England by Jewish immigrants from Portugal and Spain, who fried fish in batter. Chips became popular in northern England around the same time.
The first fish and chip shops opened in the 1860s. Joseph Malin in London and John Lees in Mossley, near Manchester, are both credited with opening early shops.
A national favorite
Fish and chips was one of the few foods not rationed during World War II, and the government saw it as important for public morale.
The most common fish are cod and haddock, coated in batter and deep-fried. Chips are thick-cut potatoes. Traditional accompaniments include salt, malt vinegar, mushy peas, tartare sauce and curry sauce.
In the past, fish and chips were wrapped in old newspaper. Today, special paper is used for hygiene reasons.
There are thousands of fish and chip shops in the UK, often called chippies. Fish and chips are especially popular on Fridays and at seaside towns such as Whitby, Scarborough and Padstow.