Codfish Finger Cakes(Bolinnos De Bacalhau)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Portuguese

Codfish Finger Cakes are crispy, golden-brown snacks blending flaky codfish with seasoned mashed potatoes, perfect as appetizers or snacks for seafood lovers and casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. freshly mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 lb. cooked and finely shredded codfish
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 large onion
  • 3 Tbsp. fresh parsley
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 1/2 c. flour

Instructions

  1. Soak the codfish in water for 24 hours, replacing the water 3 or 4 times.
  2. Cook the soaked codfish in fresh water for about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Debone and shred the codfish by hand; mince with a fork or in a food processor.
  4. Mix the shredded codfish with the mashed potatoes, minced onion, and chopped parsley.
  5. Add the beaten eggs, salt, and pepper; stir everything together.
  6. With floured hands, form the mixture into small egg-shaped cakes.
  7. Fry the cakes in 1/2 inch of hot oil until golden brown.
  8. Drain on paper towels and garnish with parsley and sliced tomato wedges.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using less oil or baking the cakes instead of frying. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be a good substitute, although the flavor will be milder. Ensure the codfish is well-soaked to reduce saltiness, and replace it with canned cod if fresh is unavailable. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve codfish finger cakes with a side of tartar sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair wonderfully with sliced tomato wedges and extra parsley for garnish. For a delightful appetizer, serve alongside Strawberry Appetizers or as part of a buffet spread. They can also be enjoyed with a refreshing beverage like iced tea.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover codfish finger cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Codfish Finger Cakes(Bolinnos De Bacalhau) contains roughly 1406 calories, with 19g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2160mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).

1406 kcal 70% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.4g 39% DV
Total Fat 121.8g 100% DV
Carbs 72.6g 26% DV
Fiber 15.7g 56% DV
Sugar 4.8g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2160.4mg 94% DV
Potassium 1751.8mg 37% DV
Cholesterol 96.8mg 32% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 78.6mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 71.2mg 79% DV
Calcium 738.6mg 57% DV
Iron 13.9mg 77% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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

How do I make the cakes spicier?

To add heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, ensuring the spiciness complements the flavors without overpowering them.

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).

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