Bolos De Bacalhau(Codfish Cakes)
Bolos de Bacalhau are crispy, savory Portuguese codfish cakes with parsley and potatoes, perfect as an appetizer or snack for seafood lovers and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mashed potatoes, soaked and flaked codfish, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into egg-shaped balls about 1 1/2 inches long.
- Deep fry the balls in hot oil until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve garnished with parsley sprigs, either cold or warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the potatoes with mashed cauliflower. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of smoked paprika to the mixture. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.
Serving Suggestions
These codfish cakes are delicious served with a side of tartar sauce or a fresh green salad. They can also be paired with a squeeze of lemon or a spicy aioli for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing Tropical Fruit Freeze Drink.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover codfish cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain their crispiness compared to microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bolos De Bacalhau(Codfish Cakes) contains roughly 126 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cod instead of boiled codfish?
Yes, you can use fresh cod. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before mashing. Boiling or steaming the fish will help retain its moisture and flavor, making it easier to combine with the other ingredients.
How do I ensure my codfish cakes hold together while frying?
To ensure they hold together, make sure the mixture is well combined and not too wet. If it feels loose, you can add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients. Also, allow them to sit for a few minutes before frying to firm up.
Can I make these codfish cakes in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Form the cakes just before frying, or you can fry them in advance and reheat them as described in the storage section for a quick meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).