Bacaliaro Fritters (Fried Cod)

🐟 Bacalhau Fritters – A Delicious Portuguese Delight! 🇵🇹

Bacalhau fritters, also known as “Bolinhos de Bacalhau,” are a popular Portuguese dish made from salted codfish. They are a delightful and flavorful appetizer or snack, and their history is deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary traditions. Let’s dive into the details:

📜 History:
Bacalhau fritters have a long and storied history in Portugal. Salted codfish, known as “bacalhau,” became a staple in the Portuguese diet due to its durability and long shelf life, making it ideal for seafaring exploration during the Age of Discovery. The technique of salting and drying codfish was introduced to the Portuguese by the Vikings and has been a part of their culture since the 14th century. Bacalhau fritters are just one of the many ways they’ve ingeniously used this versatile ingredient.

🥘 Ingredients:
To make delicious Bacalhau fritters, you’ll need the following components:

• 250g of salted codfish (bacalhau)
• 2 cups of mashed potatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Emojis: 🐟🥔🧅🧄🍳🧂🫔🍴

👩‍🍳 Preparation:

1. Begin by soaking the salted codfish in water for 24-48 hours, changing the water a few times to remove excess salt. This rehydrates the fish.
2. Boil the codfish until it’s tender, then remove the skin and bones and flake it into small pieces.
3. Boil the potatoes until soft, mash them, and let them cool.
4. In a bowl, combine the flaked codfish, mashed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Beat the eggs and add them to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined.
7. Shape the mixture into small, round patties or quenelles, using your hands or two spoons.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Fry the fritters until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
10. Remove the fritters and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

🕒 Time Required:
The total time needed to prepare Bacalhau fritters may vary, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours, including the soaking and cooking time for the codfish. This recipe makes approximately 20 fritters, and the frying process is relatively quick.

🍽️ Serving:
Bacalhau fritters are best enjoyed hot and crispy. They can be served as a tasty appetizer with a side of dipping sauce, like aioli or tartar sauce. They are a delightful combination of the salty and hearty flavor of codfish and the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, making them a beloved snack in Portugal and beyond.

So there you have it, a delicious taste of Portuguese culinary history in the form of Bacalhau fritters! 🍽️🇵🇹😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Bacalhau Fritters:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values for a single Bacalhau Fritter):

• Calories: 100-150 kcal
• Protein: 8-10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 5-8 grams
• Fat: 5-8 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 250-350 mg (may vary depending on how well you soaked and desalted the codfish)
• Vitamin A: 2-4% of the recommended daily intake
• Vitamin C: 2-4% of the recommended daily intake
• Calcium: 2-4% of the recommended daily intake
• Iron: 4-6% of the recommended daily intake

Health Information:

1. Protein: Bacalhau fritters provide a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2. Carbohydrates: The carb content primarily comes from the mashed potatoes. While they provide energy, these fritters are not a high-carb food.

3. Fat: Frying the fritters can increase their fat content. Try to use healthier cooking methods like baking or air frying to reduce the fat content.

4. Sodium: The salt used in the codfish may add to the sodium content. It’s important to soak and desalt the codfish properly to reduce sodium levels. High sodium intake can be problematic for those with hypertension.

5. Vitamins and Minerals: Bacalhau fritters contain small amounts of vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. While not a significant source, they do contribute to your daily micronutrient intake.

6. Moderation: Bacalhau fritters are a delightful treat, but they are typically fried, which may not be the healthiest cooking method. Enjoy them in moderation as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your diet.

7. Variations: If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, consider baking or air frying the fritters instead of deep frying. Using less oil can reduce the fat content.

Remember, the nutritional values can vary based on factors such as the size of the fritters and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s a good idea to adjust the recipe to suit your needs or consult a nutritionist for personalized advice.