Codfish Balls Recipe

Codfish balls, also known as salt cod fritters, are a delicious and popular dish that originated from the coastal regions of Portugal. This recipe has since gained popularity in many other countries, including the United States, where it is a staple in New England cuisine. The combination of flaky codfish, creamy mashed potatoes, and flavorful seasonings make these balls a delightful treat for any occasion.

To begin, you'll need to soak the codfish for several hours in cold water. This step is crucial as it helps to rehydrate the fish and remove excess saltiness. The longer you soak the codfish, the milder the taste will be. Once the fish has been soaked, cook it slowly or simmer it for a short time until it becomes tender. This can be achieved by gently poaching or steaming the codfish.

After cooking the codfish, remove it from the heat and drain any excess liquid. Allow the fish to cool before squeezing out all the moisture. To do this, place the flaked fish in a small piece of cheesecloth and firmly squeeze until all the liquid is removed. This step is important as it prevents the codfish balls from being too wet, which can affect their texture and frying process.

In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of the flaked codfish with an equal quantity of warm mashed potatoes. The warm mashed potatoes help bind the mixture together. You can make your own mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until tender and mashing them with butter, milk, and salt. Add the yolk of one egg, one tablespoonful of milk, and a little pepper to the mixture. The egg adds moisture and helps with binding, while the milk and pepper add flavor. Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.

Now it's time to shape the codfish mixture into small balls. Dust your hands with a little flour to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a small portion of the mixture, roughly the size of a golf ball, and roll it between your palms until it forms a smooth ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture has been used.

To achieve a crispy outer coating, you'll need to dip the codfish balls in a two-step process. First, dip each ball in beaten egg whites, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll the ball in bread crumbs until it is evenly covered. The egg whites act as a glue, helping the bread crumbs adhere to the balls. For a more flavorful variation, consider adding herbs or spices to the bread crumbs, such as parsley or paprika.

Once all the codfish balls are coated, place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step is essential as it helps the balls hold their shape during the frying process.

To fry the codfish balls, heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pan or frying pot. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small bread crumb is dropped into it. Carefully place a few codfish balls at a time into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry the balls until they turn golden brown, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried codfish balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

To garnish the codfish balls, sprinkle them with chopped parsley. The vibrant green color of the parsley not only adds a touch of freshness to the dish but also complements the flavors of the codfish and potatoes. Serve the codfish balls hot as an appetizer or alongside a salad for a light meal. They can also be enjoyed as a main course when served with a side of steamed vegetables or rice.

Now that you have mastered the art of making codfish balls, you can explore other similar recipe dishes. One such dish is Bacalao a la Vizcaina, a traditional Spanish recipe that features salted cod cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices. This hearty and flavorful dish is often served with crusty bread or rice.

Another dish worth trying is Brandade de Morue, a French specialty made with salted cod, olive oil, garlic, and milk. The mixture is then whipped until creamy and served with toasted bread or vegetables. This dish showcases the versatility of salted cod and is a true delight for the senses.

In conclusion, codfish balls are a beloved recipe that has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings in Portugal to becoming a cherished dish in many parts of the world, these delicious bites are a must-try for seafood lovers. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, codfish balls are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and enjoy this delightful treat with your family and friends.