Portuguese fish cakes, also known as "bolinhos de bacalhau," are a popular and delicious dish in Portugal. Made with salted cod, potatoes, eggs, and parsley, these fish cakes are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. They are a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are often served as an appetizer or snack. In this article, we will share a traditional Portuguese fish cakes recipe that is easy to make and will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
1. Salted Cod
The star ingredient of Portuguese fish cakes is salted cod, also known as "bacalhau." This type of fish is preserved by salting and drying and has a rich and savory flavor. It is easily available in most seafood markets and can also be found in some grocery stores. Make sure to soak the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours before using it in the recipe to remove excess salt.
2. Potatoes
Potatoes are another essential ingredient in Portuguese fish cakes. They add a creamy and fluffy texture to the fish cakes and help bind the ingredients together. Make sure to use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon gold for the best results.
3. Eggs
Eggs are used as a binder in this recipe, helping to hold the fish cakes together. They also add richness and flavor to the dish.
4. Parsley
Parsley is a common herb used in Portuguese cuisine and adds a fresh and herby flavor to the fish cakes. It is finely chopped and mixed with the other ingredients before shaping the fish cakes.
5. Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for frying the fish cakes, giving them a crispy and golden exterior. It also adds a subtle and delicious flavor to the dish.
Instructions:
1. Start by soaking the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours. Change the water every few hours to remove excess salt.
2. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool before peeling and mashing them.
3. In a separate bowl, flake the soaked salted cod into small pieces, removing any bones.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked salted cod, chopped parsley, and beaten eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, about the size of your palm.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish cakes in the skillet and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the fish cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve the Portuguese fish cakes hot, with a side of lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy as an appetizer or snack, or pair them with a salad or rice for a complete meal.
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In Summary
Portuguese fish cakes are a delicious and popular dish in Portugal. Made with salted cod, potatoes, eggs, and parsley, they are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish. So next time you want to impress your friends and family with a traditional Portuguese dish, give this fish cakes recipe a try!
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Ingredients:
1. Salted Cod
The star ingredient of Portuguese fish cakes is salted cod, also known as "bacalhau." This type of fish is preserved by salting and drying and has a rich and savory flavor. It is easily available in most seafood markets and can also be found in some grocery stores. Make sure to soak the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours before using it in the recipe to remove excess salt.
2. Potatoes
Potatoes are another essential ingredient in Portuguese fish cakes. They add a creamy and fluffy texture to the fish cakes and help bind the ingredients together. Make sure to use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon gold for the best results.
3. Eggs
Eggs are used as a binder in this recipe, helping to hold the fish cakes together. They also add richness and flavor to the dish.
4. Parsley
Parsley is a common herb used in Portuguese cuisine and adds a fresh and herby flavor to the fish cakes. It is finely chopped and mixed with the other ingredients before shaping the fish cakes.
5. Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for frying the fish cakes, giving them a crispy and golden exterior. It also adds a subtle and delicious flavor to the dish.
Instructions:
1. Start by soaking the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours. Change the water every few hours to remove excess salt.
2. In a large pot, boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool before peeling and mashing them.
3. In a separate bowl, flake the soaked salted cod into small pieces, removing any bones.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked salted cod, chopped parsley, and beaten eggs. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, about the size of your palm.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish cakes in the skillet and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the fish cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve the Portuguese fish cakes hot, with a side of lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy as an appetizer or snack, or pair them with a salad or rice for a complete meal.
In Summary
Portuguese fish cakes are a delicious and popular dish in Portugal. Made with salted cod, potatoes, eggs, and parsley, they are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish. So next time you want to impress your friends and family with a traditional Portuguese dish, give this fish cakes recipe a try!