Best 2 Salt Cod Fritters Pasteis De Bacalhau Recipes

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Salt cod fritters, also known as pastéis de bacalhau in Portuguese, are a beloved culinary treasure of Portugal. These delectable morsels are crafted using a harmonious blend of salted cod, mashed potatoes, and a touch of parsley, all bound together by the magic of eggs. Deep-fried to crispy perfection, these fritters boast a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful interior. Pastéis de bacalhau are not just a mere appetizer; they are a symphony of textures and flavors that can be enjoyed as a main course, accompanied by a crisp salad or a dollop of tangy sauce. This article presents a collection of carefully curated recipes that delve into the art of making these delectable fritters. From traditional Portuguese recipes passed down through generations to innovative variations that add a touch of modernity, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating perfect salt cod fritters. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

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SALT COD FRITTERS



Salt Cod Fritters image

Provided by Emeril Lagasse

Categories     appetizer

Time 1h25m

Yield 24 fritters

Number Of Ingredients 21

1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large russet potato, about 12 ounces, peeled and cubed (about 3/4 cup)
1 cup shredded salt cod (about 6 ounces), recipe follows
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley leaves
2 large eggs
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/4 teaspoons Essence or Creole seasoning, recipe follows
3 tablespoons milk
2/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs
2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 pound dried salt cod, cut into 4-inch pieces

Steps:

  • In a small saucepan, bring the potato and enough water to cover to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook just until fork tender, about 12 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl to cool for 10 minutes.
  • With the back of a heavy fork, mash the potatoes until smooth but still slightly lumpy. Add the salt cod, green onions, parsley, 1 egg, the salt, and cayenne and mix until smooth.
  • In a large, deep heavy pot or electric deep fryer, heat enough oil to come halfway up the sides to 350 degrees F.
  • In a small bowl, combine the flour and 1 teaspoon of the Essence. In another bowl, beat together the remaining egg, the milk, and 1/4 teaspoon of the Essence, and in a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 teaspoons Essence.
  • Divide the cod mixture into 24 and form into balls, about 1 1/4-inches in diameter and 1 heaping tablespoon each.
  • One at a time, dip the cod balls in the flour and roll to coat evenly on all sides. Shake to remove any excess flour, dip in the egg wash, and then roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Place on a baking sheet.
  • In batches, gently add the balls to the oil and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 2 1/2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve immediately.
  • Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  • Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch
  • Published by William and Morrow, 1993.
  • In a large glass or ceramic dish, lay the salt cod in a single layer. Add enough water to cover the fish by 1-inch, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 6 hours.
  • Drain the fish in a colander and rinse under cold running water. Place the fish on a work surface covered with paper towels and press each piece firmly with your hands. Pat the fish dry with paper towels and return to the soaking dish. Cover with fresh water, soaking and draining a total of three more times (for a total of 4 times in all).
  • Place the rinsed and dried salt cod in an airtight container until ready to use, and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

SALT COD FRITTERS: PASTEIS DE BACALHAU



Salt Cod Fritters: Pasteis De Bacalhau image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Categories     appetizer

Yield 25 cod fritters

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 pound dried salt cod
2 cups milk
4 medium Idaho potatoes
1 large Spanish onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
1 handful fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 large eggs
Freshly ground black pepper and sea salt, if needed
Vegetable oil, for frying
Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps:

  • Starting a day ahead, soak the dried cod in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove the majority of the salt. Drain the cod, rinse, and put it in a large pot. Add the milk and enough water to cover by 1-inch; cooking the cod in milk keeps it really moist. Simmer gently over medium-low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cod is tender and pliable. Drain and rinse well, then flake the cod into a bowl with your hands, removing any little bits of skin and bone.
  • While the cod is cooking, pour 1-inch of water in a large pot fitted with a steamer insert. Add the potatoes and simmer on medium heat for 20 to 25 minutes until very tender. Drain the potatoes, peel off the skins, and mash them well with a potato masher or pass them through a ricer or sieve.
  • Add the cod to the potatoes, along with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and eggs. Beat the mixture firmly with a wooden spoon so that it well combined and firm ¿ a spoon should stand up in it. (If you find it too dry, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk.) Season with a pinch of pepper and taste for salt - you may not need to add any, as the cod itself retains enough saltiness, in spite of being soaked and boiled. With lightly moistened hands or using 2 tablespoons, shape the cod mixture into egg-shaped balls ¿ you should get about 25. (The cod balls can be covered and refrigerated for up to 1 day before cooking or frozen in a container.)
  • Heat 3-inches of oil in a deep heavy skillet or pot to 370 degrees F. Add a few of the cod balls at a time to the hot oil, turning them 3 or 4 times to get nicely browned all over. Carefully lift the cod fritters out of the pan with a slotted spoon and place on a platter lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat. Serve hot or at room temperature with lemon wedges.

Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality codfish for the best results.
  • Soak the codfish in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 8 hours.
  • When shredding the codfish, use your fingers or a fork to get a fine texture.
  • Don't overmix the batter, or the fritters will be tough.
  • Fry the fritters in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve the fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Conclusion:

Salt cod fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties or potlucks, and they can also be served as a main course with a side of salad or rice. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, these fritters are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So next time you're looking for a new recipe to try, give these salt cod fritters a try. You won't be disappointed!

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