Rustic Portuguese Bolinhos de Bacalhau with Parsley

Name: Rustic Portuguese Bolinhos de Bacalhau with Parsley
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 400g salted cod fillets; Water; 500g russet potatoes; 2 large eggs; 1 small onion; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley; Salt and pepper; Vegetable oil

Traditional Portuguese Salt Cod Fritters

These savory bolinhos de bacalhau are a delightful blend of salted cod, potatoes, and fresh herbs, making them perfect for any occasion.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Cod Preparation

400g salted cod fillets

Water

for soaking and boiling

For the Batter

500g russet potatoes

peeled and quartered

2 large eggs

1 small onion

finely chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

chopped

Salt and pepper

to taste

For Frying

Vegetable oil

for frying

Preparation

Desalting the Cod

Place the salted cod fillets in a large bowl.

Cover with cold water and refrigerate for 24 hours, changing the water every 6 hours.

For the best flavor, ensure the cod is soaked for at least 24 hours to remove excess salt.

Drain and rinse the cod thoroughly.

Preparing the Dish

Boil the potatoes until tender.

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Cook and shred the cod.

In a large pot, boil the desalted cod for 10 minutes. Drain, remove any bones, and shred finely.

Combine potatoes, cod and seasonings.

Mash the potatoes and combine them with shredded cod, onion, parsley, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

⚠ Taste the mixture before adding more salt, as residual saltiness from the cod can vary. 💡 Use a potato ricer for smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes.

Cooking Process

Shape the fritters

Shape the cod-potato mixture into small balls or ovals.

Heat the oil

Ensure the oil is heated to 180°C (350°F) for optimal frying.

Fry the fritters

Fry in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Timing

Boiling Potatoes: 20 min; Boiling Cod: 10 min; Frying: 15 min.

Heat Guide

Boiling: Medium-high heat; Frying: Medium heat.

Plating & Serving