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Pasteis de Bacalhau | Bolinhos de Bacalhau | Codfish Croquettes

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Originating from Portugal, Pastéis de Bacalhau are a beloved traditional dish made primarily with salt cod, a staple in Portuguese cuisine due to its preservation method. These codfish cakes are often served at festive occasions and are a testament to the country's maritime heritage. Today, they are enjoyed not only in Portugal but also in various forms across the globe, reflecting the influence of Portuguese explorers and immigrants.

Ingredients

  • salt cod
  • potatoes
  • onion
  • eggs
  • parsley
  • garlic
  • black pepper
  • olive oil
  • flour
  • bread crumbs
  • lemon zest
  • water

Instructions

  1. 1Soak salt cod in water for 24 hours, changing the water several times.
  2. 2Boil potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them.
  3. 3Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
  4. 4Flake the soaked cod into small pieces, removing any bones.
  5. 5Combine the cod, mashed potatoes, sautéed onions, parsley, and lemon zest in a bowl.
  6. 6Mix in eggs until well combined, then season with black pepper.
  7. 7Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  8. 8Form the mixture into small cakes or patties.
  9. 9Dredge each cake in flour, then coat with bread crumbs.
  10. 10Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  11. 11Fry the cakes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  12. 12Drain on paper towels before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

salt cod

Healthier: fresh cod

Cheaper: canned tuna

Fresh cod is lower in sodium and canned tuna is often more affordable.

potatoes

Healthier: sweet potatoes

Cheaper: mashed potatoes

Sweet potatoes add nutrients and flavor, while mashed potatoes can be used for cost savings.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while vegetable oil is often less expensive.

bread crumbs

Healthier: panko

Cheaper: crushed crackers

Panko provides a lighter texture, while crushed crackers can be more economical.

Techniques

soakingboilingsautéingmixingfrying

Equipment

large bowlskilletpotspatulapaper towels
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowfishglutenegg

Also Known As

Bacalhau à BrásCodfish Cakes

Bolinhos de Bacalhau, or codfish fritters, are a beloved Portuguese dish, often served as a festive appetizer during holidays and family gatherings. The dish reflects the Portuguese tradition of preserving cod, a staple in the country's cuisine, which has roots in the maritime culture of fishing and trade. Today, these fritters are enjoyed not only in Portugal but also in various forms around the world, showcasing the versatility of cod in global culinary practices.

Ingredients

  • salt cod
  • potatoes
  • eggs
  • onion
  • parsley
  • black pepper
  • flour
  • baking powder
  • olive oil
  • water
  • lemon
  • garlic
  • bay leaves
  • paprika
  • cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Soak the salt cod in water for 24 hours, changing the water several times.
  2. 2Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and let cool.
  3. 3Peel and mash the potatoes in a large bowl.
  4. 4Flake the soaked cod, removing any bones and skin, and add to the mashed potatoes.
  5. 5Finely chop the onion and parsley, then add them to the mixture.
  6. 6In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in with the cod and potato mixture.
  7. 7Season with black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper to taste.
  8. 8Incorporate flour and baking powder until the mixture is thick but still spoonable.
  9. 9Heat olive oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  10. 10Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, frying in batches.
  11. 11Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.
  12. 12Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Ingredient Alternatives

salt cod

Healthier: fresh cod

Cheaper: canned tuna

Canned tuna is more affordable and easier to find.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is less expensive and works well for frying.

Techniques

soakingboilingmashingmixingfrying

Equipment

large bowlpotdeep fryerspoonpaper towels
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowfishegggluten

Also Known As

Bacalhau à BrásCodfish Fritters

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked codfish, flaked
  • 1 cup mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the flaked codfish and mashed potatoes until well mixed.
  2. 2Add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir until fully combined.
  3. 3Form the mixture into small patties or balls, about 2 inches in diameter.
  4. 4Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
  5. 5Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
  6. 6Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  7. 7Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. 8Remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  9. 9Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Equipment

large bowlfrying panpaper towelsspatula

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