Fish and Chips, Proper!

4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into strips
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup milk
1 egg
1 quart vegetable oil for frying
1 1/2 pounds cod fillets

Place potatoes in a medium-size bowl of cold water. In a separate medium-size mixing bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the milk and egg; stir until the mixture is smooth. Let mixture stand for 20 minutes.

Preheat the oil in a large pot or electric skillet to 350°F. Fry the potatoes in the hot oil until they are tender. Drain them on paper towels.

Dredge the fish in the batter, one piece at a time, and place them in the hot oil. Fry until the fish is golden brown. If necessary, increase the heat to maintain the 350°F temperature. Drain well on paper towels.

Fry the potatoes again for 1 to 2 minutes for added crispness. (Omit this if you're like me and like soggy chips!)