Delight Your Taste Buds with Authentic Brazilian Cod Balls
Elevate Your Appetizer Game with This Traditional Brazilian Dish
Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold and diverse flavors, and one dish that perfectly embodies this is the Brazilian cod balls, also known as bolinho de bacalhau. This popular appetizer is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich and vibrant flavors of Brazil. Not only is it delicious, but it also has a fascinating history behind it, making it a unique addition to any menu. In this article, we will take a closer look at the origins of this dish and share with you an authentic Brazilian cod balls recipe that will have your taste buds begging for more.
Jump to Recipe
Main Ingredients: Cod, Unsalted Butter, Garlic Powder, Salt, Ground
This simple and delicious recipe for buttered cod in skillet is a perfect weeknight meal. The buttery and flavorful fish is cooked to perfection in a skillet, making it a quick and easy dinner option. The tender and flaky cod is paired with fresh herbs and lemon juice for a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
2of 20
Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Main Ingredients: Butter, Olive Oil, Garlic, Paprika, Salt, Finely
If you're looking for a tasty and healthy way to enjoy cod, this garlic butter baked cod recipe is the way to go. The fish is marinated in a flavorful garlic and herb butter sauce, then baked in the oven until tender and flaky. The result is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
3of 20
Broiled Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Lemon, Melted Butter, Garlic Clove, Fresh Parsley
Broiling is a quick and easy way to cook fish, and this broiled cod recipe is no exception. The fish is coated in a delicious herb and breadcrumb mixture, then broiled until crispy and golden brown. The result is a crunchy and flavorful dish that is sure to please your taste buds. Serve it with a side of steamed rice and steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
4of 20
Pan-Fried Cod Fish (Easy!)
Main Ingredients: Cod, Eggs, All Purpose Flour, Old Bay Seasoning, Salt
For a simple and delicious way to prepare cod fish, try this easy pan-fried cod recipe. The fish is seasoned with garlic, paprika, and lemon juice, then pan-fried until tender and flaky. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be served with your choice of side dishes, such as quinoa or roasted potatoes.
5of 20
Baked Cod with Lemon
Main Ingredients: Cod, Kosher Salt, Fresh Ground Black Pepper, Lemon
This baked cod with lemon recipe is a great way to add some fresh and bright flavors to your meal. The cod is topped with lemon slices and fresh herbs, then baked until tender and flaky. The result is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with a side of mixed greens for a complete and satisfying meal.
6of 20
Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Onion, Fennel, Garlic, Diced Tomato
This easy one pan Mediterranean cod recipe is a great way to add some Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. The fish is cooked in a tomato and olive sauce, then topped with feta cheese for a burst of flavor. This one pan meal is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be served with your choice of whole grain pasta or couscous.
7of 20
Parmesan and Panko Encrusted Cod
Main Ingredients: Panko Bread Crumbs, Flour, Parmesan Cheese, Cayenne
If you're a fan of crispy fish, you'll love this parmesan and panko encrusted cod recipe. The fish is coated in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then baked until golden brown and crispy. The result is a flavorful and crunchy dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
8of 20
Cod Piccata
Main Ingredients: Cod, Blanched Almond Flour, Sea Salt, All Purpose
This cod piccata recipe is a delicious and elegant way to prepare cod. The fish is cooked in a buttery and tangy lemon caper sauce, then topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This restaurant-worthy dish is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party. Serve it with a side of angel hair pasta and sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
9of 20
Pan Fried Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder
For a simple and flavorful way to cook cod, try this pan fried cod recipe. The fish is seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, then pan fried until tender and flaky. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be served with your choice of side dishes, such as rice pilaf or roasted vegetables.
10of 20
Air Fryer Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Egg, All Purpose Flour, Panko Breadcrumbs, Taco
If you have an air fryer, you have to try this air fryer cod recipe. The fish is coated in a spicy and flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings, then cooked in the air fryer until crispy and golden brown. This healthier alternative to deep frying is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli for a well-rounded dinner.
11of 20
15 Minute Wild Cod Piccata
Main Ingredients: Cod, Salt, Flour, Butter, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh
This 15 minute wild cod piccata recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The fish is cooked in a lemon and caper sauce, then topped with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be served with your choice of side dishes, such as quinoa or roasted vegetables.
12of 20
Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Shallot, Garlic, Butter, Vegetable Stock
This lemon butter baked cod recipe is a delicious and easy way to prepare cod fish. The fish is marinated in a lemon and butter sauce, then baked until tender and flaky. The result is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete meal.
13of 20
Beer Battered Fried Cod with Fresh Chips
Main Ingredients: Cod, All Purpose Flour, Ground Cayenne Pepper, Cumin
This beer battered fried cod with fresh chips recipe is a classic and delicious way to enjoy cod. The fish is coated in a beer batter, then fried until crispy and golden brown. The result is a crunchy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weekend dinner. Serve it with homemade French fries for a traditional fish and chips meal.
14of 20
Baked Cod (Low Carb, Keto)
Main Ingredients: Cod, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Fresh Parsley, Paprika
If you're following a low carb or keto diet, this baked cod recipe is a must-try. The fish is coated in a parmesan and almond flour crust, then baked until crispy and golden brown. The result is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a low carb dinner. Serve it with a side of cauliflower rice and roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
15of 20
Delicious Lemon Pepper Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Fresh Lemon Juice, Ground Black Pepper, Sea Salt
This delicious lemon pepper cod recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare cod fish. The fish is seasoned with lemon pepper and garlic powder, then pan fried until tender and flaky. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be served with your choice of side dishes, such as quinoa or steamed vegetables.
16of 20
Classic Cod Cakes
Main Ingredients: Cod, Potatoes, Parsley, Salt, Oil
For a unique and tasty way to enjoy cod, try this classic cod cakes recipe. The fish is combined with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and seasonings, then formed into patties and pan fried until golden brown. These savory and flavorful cakes are perfect for a light lunch or served as an appetizer at your next gathering.
17of 20
Roasted Cod With Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Cod, I Can T Believe It S Not Butter Made With Olive
This roasted cod with mushrooms recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy cod fish. The fish is topped with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs, then roasted in the oven until tender and flaky. The result is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete meal.
18of 20
Fish (Pacific Cod) & Avocado Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cod, Fresh Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Black Pepper
This fish and avocado sauce recipe is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy cod. The fish is marinated in a lemon and garlic sauce, then topped with a creamy avocado sauce for a burst of flavor. This healthy and delicious dish is perfect for a light lunch or weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side of brown rice and steamed vegetables.
19of 20
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Olive, Roma Tomatoes, White Onion, Leek
This sheet pan Mediterranean cod recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare cod. The fish is seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon juice, then roasted on a sheet pan with vegetables for a complete meal. This one pan meal is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be served with your choice of whole grain couscous or quinoa.
20of 20
Weeknight Lemon Pepper Cod
Main Ingredients: Cod, Unsalted Butter, Lemon, Panko Breadcrumbs, Lemon
This weeknight lemon pepper cod recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal. The fish is seasoned with lemon pepper and garlic powder, then baked until tender and flaky. This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be served with your choice of side dishes, such as rice pilaf or sautéed vegetables.
The History and Origins of Brazilian Cod Balls
The history of Brazilian cod balls can be traced back to the early 16th century when Portuguese explorers first introduced codfish to Brazil. Due to its abundance and affordability, cod quickly became a staple in the Brazilian diet, and the locals found creative ways to incorporate it into their cuisine. One of the most popular dishes that emerged was the cod balls, which was a clever way to use up leftover cod and turn it into a delicious snack or appetizer.
Over the years, the recipe for Brazilian cod balls has evolved, with different regions in Brazil adding their own unique twist to it. However, the main ingredients remain the same - salted cod, potatoes, and various herbs and spices. This dish is still a popular street food in Brazil and can be found in almost every corner of the country.
Making the Perfect Brazilian Cod Balls
Now that you know a bit about the history of Brazilian cod balls, it's time to try your hand at making them at home. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, but the end result is a burst of flavors that will transport you to the streets of Brazil.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salted cod
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Soak the salted cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water every few hours.
2. Boil the cod for 10 minutes, then drain and let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, mash the boiled potatoes and flake the cod into small pieces.
4. Add the garlic, onion, parsley, and green onions to the bowl and mix well.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add it to the potato and cod mixture.
6. Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until it forms a thick dough.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot.
9. Using a spoon, scoop the dough and carefully drop it into the hot oil, frying until golden brown.
10. Drain on a paper towel and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Bringing a Taste of Brazil to Your Table
Brazilian cod balls are a delicious and easy way to add some Brazilian flair to your next gathering or dinner party. With its rich history and unique combination of flavors, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the flavors of Brazil in the comfort of your own home?