Garfish Balls
Garfish balls are tender seafood bites seasoned with herbs and vegetables, then simmered in a flavorful gravy, perfect for seafood lovers seeking hearty comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground or scraped garfish with soaked bread, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chopped celery, chopped green onion, parsley, salt, and pepper to form a mixture.
- Shape the mixture into balls and roll them in flour.
- Fry the balls in hot oil until they are browned on both sides.
- Remove excess grease from the pan.
- Make a brown roux by mixing 1 cup flour with 1 cup oil and cooking until browned.
- Add chopped onion to the roux and stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add 1 to 2 cups water to the pan and bring to a simmer.
- Place the fried garfish balls into the gravy.
- Cover and cook slowly for about an hour, seasoning to taste.
- Serve over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole grain bread in place of regular bread. If garfish isn't available, you can substitute with any firm white fish. Ensure the mixture is well-seasoned to enhance the flavors. For an added kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper or cayenne. These garfish balls are versatile and can be served as an appetizer or main dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garfish balls over a bed of hot cooked rice for a hearty meal. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, such as Green Beans Of The Sea Salad, for a balanced plate. These balls also make a great appetizer for gatherings, alongside a dipping sauce or a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover garfish balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water and cover to steam until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garfish Balls contains roughly 542 calories, with 12g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen garfish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen garfish, but be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before grinding. This will help maintain the texture of the garfish balls. If using frozen fish, check for any bones before grinding to ensure a smooth consistency.
What can I substitute for the bread in this recipe?
If you want to avoid bread, you can use cooked rice or breadcrumbs. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or mashed potatoes to bind the mixture. Adjust the seasoning accordingly as different binders may absorb flavors differently.
How do I know when the garfish balls are fully cooked?
The garfish balls are fully cooked when they are golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. You can also cut one open to check; it should be opaque and flake easily. Cooking them slowly in the gravy helps to ensure they are cooked through while keeping them moist.
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).