Salt Cod Fritters are one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. I learned this recipe from my neighbor, who shared her family’s traditional version with me. The combination of salt cod and potatoes creates perfect little bites that are crispy outside and fluffy inside. The best part? You can prep them ahead and fry them just before serving.
About the Recipe
This recipe transforms humble ingredients into something special. Salt cod has been a Mediterranean staple for centuries, and these fritters show why. They’re not fancy or complicated – just good, honest food that makes people happy. The mix of fish and potatoes creates a perfect texture, while garlic and parsley add bright, fresh flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These fritters are really hard to mess up. The potato helps hold everything together, so you don’t need to worry about them falling apart while frying. They’re great for beginners but impressive enough for experienced cooks. You can make the mixture ahead of time, and they’re perfect for both casual snacking and fancy appetizers. Plus, they’re budget-friendly – a little salt cod goes a long way.
Salt Cod Fritters
Cooking Tips
– Soak your salt cod for 24-48 hours, changing the water twice daily
– Make sure to remove all bones carefully
– Don’t skip the refrigeration step – it helps the fritters hold their shape
– Test the oil temperature with a small piece of mixture – it should sizzle immediately
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Makes about 20 fritters. Total prep time: 1 hour (plus soaking time). Serve hot with lemon wedges and a simple green salad. They’re best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Similar Recipes
- Fish Cakes with Fresh Herbs
- Portuguese Bacalhau à Brás
- Potato and Tuna Croquettes
Salt Cod Fritters
Ingredients
- 500 gms Salt Cod (soaked)
- 2 cups Milk
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (chopped)
- 500 gms Potatoes (boiled and mashed)
- 2 Eggs (beaten)
- 2 tbsp Parsley
- Olive Oil for frying
- Salt as per taste
- Ground Black Pepper as per taste
- Lemon Wedges to serve
Instructions
- Drain the cod, pat dry and cut into large pieces.
- Heat the milk in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the cod and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer very gently for about 30 minutes, until the fish is soft.
- Drain and leave to cool.
- Flake the fish, removing any skin or bones and then mash well.
- Heat oil in a frying pan.
- Saute the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
- Add the mashed potato in a bowl along with mashed cod, onion, garlic, eggs and parsley.
- Stir together.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into small patties and keep it in a fridge for 30 minutes until firm.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan until very hot.
- Fry the patties, a few at a time, for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove and drain.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge and shape and fry the fritters just before serving. This makes them perfect for parties or busy weeknight dinners.
What can I serve with salt cod fritters?
These fritters pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, aioli for dipping, or a simple tomato sauce. They’re great as appetizers or can be served as a main course with roasted vegetables.
Is it necessary to soak the salt cod?
Yes. Don’t skip this step. Soaking removes excess salt and rehydrates the fish. If you don’t soak it properly, your fritters will be too salty to eat.
