18 Portuguese Bacalhau Balls Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
If you're a fan of seafood, you've probably heard of the famous Portuguese dish, bacalhau balls. These crispy and savory snacks are a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are loved by locals and tourists alike. In this article, we'll be sharing a traditional Portuguese bacalhau balls recipe that will transport you to the streets of Lisbon with just one bite. So, put on your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this delicious dish.
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Ingredients:
Bacalhau (Salted Cod Fish)
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is bacalhau, which is a type of salted cod fish. This fish is an essential part of Portuguese cuisine and has been a tradition for centuries. It is important to choose high-quality bacalhau to ensure the best flavor and texture for your bacalhau balls.
Potatoes
To make the bacalhau balls, you'll need to mix the bacalhau with mashed potatoes. The potatoes help bind the mixture together, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Potatoes are also a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and in this dish, they add a subtle sweetness to the salty bacalhau.
Eggs and Flour
To give the bacalhau balls their crispy exterior, you'll need to coat them in a batter made of eggs and flour. These ingredients help create a light and airy coating that perfectly complements the creamy filling of the bacalhau balls. Eggs are also a great source of protein and add richness to the dish, while flour helps bind everything together.
Directions:
Step 1: Soak the Bacalhau
The first step in making bacalhau balls is to soak the bacalhau in water for at least 24 hours. This helps remove the excess salt and rehydrate the fish. Change the water a few times during this process to ensure the fish is fully desalted.
Step 2: Cook the Bacalhau
Once the bacalhau is desalted, boil it for 10-15 minutes until it is fully cooked. Drain the water and let the fish cool before removing the skin and bones and shredding it into small pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Boil the potatoes until they are soft and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Add the shredded bacalhau to the mashed potatoes and mix well.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls. If the mixture is too wet, you can add some breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
Step 5: Coat with Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add some flour to create a batter. Dip each ball into the batter, making sure it is fully coated.
Step 6: Deep Fry
Heat oil in a deep pan and carefully place the coated balls in the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Bacalhau balls are best served hot and crispy with a side of aioli, a traditional Portuguese garlic sauce. You can also serve them as a side dish or appetizer with a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor and freshness.
Now that you have the recipe for Portuguese bacalhau balls, it's time to put it into action and enjoy this delicious dish that has been a part of Portuguese culture for centuries. Bon appétit!