Portuguese Cod Fritters (Pastéis de Bacalhau) – Traditional Recipe
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with pastéis de bacalhau, those delicious portuguese cod fritters! Crispy on the outside and oh-so-tender inside, they're perfect as a snack, appetizer, or for sharing with friends. Whip them up in about an hour, and you'll have a comforting treat that's sure to impress at any gathering. Serve them hot and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
• Soak the salted cod for at least 24 hours in cold water, changing the water a few times to remove excess salt. This will ensure your fritters are not overly salty and have a balanced flavor.
• When boiling the potatoes, make sure to cut them into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Overcooked potatoes can lead to a mushy batter, so check for doneness and drain them immediately once tender.
• When mixing the batter, do not overmix once you add the eggs; this can make the fritters tough. Gently fold in the eggs until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in the fritters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh cod, but it won't have the same depth of flavor as salted cod. If using fresh cod, you may want to enhance the flavor with additional seasonings, and remember to cook it until flaky before proceeding with the recipe.
How do I store leftover fritters?
Store leftover cod fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or re-fry them briefly in hot oil to restore their crispiness.
What can I use instead of parsley if I don't have it?
If you don't have parsley, you can substitute it with other herbs such as cilantro or chives for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can omit the herbs entirely for a simpler taste.
Recommended Drink Pairings
- Vinho Verde: This light and slightly effervescent Portuguese wine complements the saltiness of the cod.
- Alvarinho: A crisp white wine with citrus notes that pairs well with the richness of the fritters.
- Sparkling Water: The bubbles cleanse the palate, making it a refreshing choice alongside the fried dish.
- Chá Preto (Black Tea): A robust tea that provides a nice contrast to the flavors of the fritters.
- Ginger Ale: The sweetness and spice of ginger ale balance the savory elements of the cod.
Ingredients
Equipment:
With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!
Directions
- Start by boiling the salted cod. In another pot, boil the potatoes.
- Once the cod has cooled, flake it thoroughly, removing every single bone.
- Wrap the cod in a clean kitchen towel and rub it vigorously until it turns into very fine strands, almost like threads.
- After the potatoes are cooked, pass them through a food mill or mash them until smooth.
- Combine the potatoes with the shredded cod, then add the eggs one at a time, the chopped parsley, and white pepper to taste.
- Mix well until you have a smooth, uniform dough.
- Using two tablespoons, shape small portions of the mixture into oval fritters, then fry them in hot oil for a few minutes until golden.
(Makes about 40 fritters.)
Adapted from a Recipe by: Pote de Receitinhas
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
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