19 Portuguese Salt Cod Croquettes Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 10, 2024
Portuguese salt cod croquettes, also known as "pastéis de bacalhau," are a beloved dish in Portugal. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a delicious blend of salt cod, potatoes, and herbs. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and now you can bring the taste of Portugal into your own kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make these mouth-watering croquettes and give you some tips for making them perfect every time.
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Ingredients for Portuguese Salt Cod Croquettes
Salt Cod
The star ingredient of this recipe is salt cod, also known as "bacalhau." It is a type of fish that has been preserved by drying and salting, giving it a unique flavor. You can find salt cod in most specialty or international markets.
Potatoes
Potatoes are another essential component of Portuguese salt cod croquettes. They provide a soft and creamy texture to the croquettes and help bind all the ingredients together. Make sure to use starchy potatoes, like russet or Yukon gold, for the best results.
Herbs and Spices
To add flavor to the croquettes, you will need garlic, onions, parsley, and bay leaves. They give a subtle yet delicious taste to the croquettes and are commonly used in Portuguese cuisine.
Eggs
Eggs are used as a binding agent in this recipe. They help hold the croquettes together and give them a golden and crispy exterior.
Breadcrumbs
To make the croquettes extra crispy, you will need breadcrumbs. You can use regular breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salt Cod
The first step is to rehydrate the salt cod. Soak it in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times. Once rehydrated, remove any bones and shred the cod into small pieces.
Step 2: Boil and Mash the Potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes into small pieces. Boil them in salted water until they are tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them until they are smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Onions
In a pan, sauté the garlic and onions until they are soft and translucent. Add the shredded cod and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, sautéed cod mixture, chopped parsley, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Shape the Croquettes
Take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a croquette. Repeat until you have used all the mixture.
Step 6: Coat with Breadcrumbs
In a shallow dish, beat eggs with a pinch of salt. Dip each croquette into the egg mixture and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Fry the Croquettes
In a deep frying pan, heat oil to 375°F. Fry the croquettes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Tips for Perfect Portuguese Salt Cod Croquettes
- Make sure to use starchy potatoes for the best texture.
- Soak the salt cod for at least 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Fry the croquettes in hot oil (375°F) to ensure they are crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
Now that you have learned the secret to making authentic Portuguese salt cod croquettes, it's time to give it a try. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch them disappear in no time. Bom apetite!