Crispy Fish Balls (Polpette di Pesce)
If you’re looking for a deliciously light and crispy seafood dish to serve as a second course, these Crispy Fish Balls (Polpette di Pesce) are a perfect choice. Made with tender cod, fresh herbs, and a rich blend of flavors, these fish balls are not only easy to prepare but also a hit at family dinners and gatherings. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an irresistible treat. Here’s how to recreate this Italian classic at home, step by step.
Ingredients:
For approximately 60 fish balls, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cod (Merluzzo) | 700g |
| Bread (preferably stale) | 100g (crumbs) |
| Fresh Parsley (Prezzemolo) | 1 bunch |
| Fresh Thyme (Timo) | to taste |
| Eggs (Uova) | 2 |
| Garlic (Aglio) | 1 clove |
| Fine Salt (Sale fino) | to taste |
| Black Pepper (Pepe nero) | to taste |
| Parmesan Cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano DOP) | 80g |
| All-Purpose Flour (Farina 00) | as needed |
| Peanut Oil (Olio di semi di arachide) | for frying |
Nutritional Information:
These Crispy Fish Balls are a balanced dish, offering a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown for one fish ball:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Fish Ball) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~60-70 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~5g |
| Fat | ~3g |
| Fiber | ~0g |
| Sugars | ~1g |
| Sodium | ~100mg |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredient measurements and portion sizes.)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Crumbs
To begin, slice your bread into small chunks. If the bread is stale, that’s ideal; it will absorb the moisture better and help form the fish balls. Place the bread in a food processor or a mixer, and pulse until you have fine breadcrumbs. Set these aside to mix with the other ingredients later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
Take the cod fillets and chop them into smaller pieces. You can also use pre-chopped cod or any white fish that flakes easily. For the best texture, it’s recommended to finely chop or pulse the fish in a food processor until it has a smooth but slightly chunky consistency. This helps the fish balls hold their shape.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cod with the breadcrumbs. Add the finely chopped parsley, fresh thyme leaves, and a clove of garlic that’s been pressed or finely minced. Grate the Parmesan cheese and stir it into the mixture for an extra creamy texture and savory depth of flavor. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix everything thoroughly. The eggs will bind the mixture together, making it easier to form the fish balls. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated. The texture should be sticky but not overly wet. If it’s too loose, you can add a little more breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Shape the Fish Balls
Once the mixture is ready, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and take small portions of the mixture. Roll them into small, compact balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, or to your preferred size. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands with flour to make shaping easier.
Step 6: Coat with Flour
Place some all-purpose flour on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Gently roll each fish ball in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. This helps the fish balls achieve a golden, crispy exterior when fried. After coating, gently shake off any excess flour using a fine sieve or colander.
Step 7: Fry the Fish Balls
In a deep frying pan or large pot, heat a generous amount of peanut oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to fully submerge the fish balls. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the mixture in. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Carefully drop the fish balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Make sure they cook through and have a delicate, firm texture inside.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Once fried, use a slotted spoon or a skimmer to remove the fish balls from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot, either as an appetizer or as a second course, accompanied by a fresh green salad, or dipping sauces like tartar sauce or a simple garlic mayo.
Tips for the Best Polpette di Pesce:
- Use Fresh Cod: While frozen cod will work just fine, fresh cod offers a more delicate flavor and texture. If possible, opt for wild-caught fish for the best taste.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute it with dried thyme or even a combination of other herbs like basil or oregano for a more personalized flavor.
- Make Ahead: These fish balls can be prepared ahead of time. After shaping the fish balls, you can freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer (just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time).
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want an even crispier exterior, you can dip the formed fish balls in beaten egg before coating them in flour, creating a thicker, more golden crust.
Serving Suggestions:
These Polpette di Pesce are perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You can serve them on a bed of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, pair them with a tangy tomato salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, they go wonderfully with a zesty homemade dip or a spicy salsa verde.
These crispy, tender fish balls also work beautifully as party food. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve at family gatherings, casual dinners, or festive events. Make a double batch, and you’ll be the hero of the party!
By preparing these Crispy Fish Balls, you’re creating a dish that combines simplicity with mouth-watering flavor, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with your family or serving them at a get-together, they are sure to impress!
