Fish Rissoles Recipe

Fish rissoles are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack. This recipe has been enjoyed for many years, with variations found in different cuisines around the world. Before we dive into the details of this recipe, let's take a moment to learn a little bit about the history of fish rissoles.

The concept of rissoles can be traced back to medieval times when they were often made using leftovers. People would take leftover meat or fish, chop it up, mix it with various ingredients, and then coat it in breadcrumbs before frying it. This was a great way to use up leftover food and turn it into a new and tasty dish.

Fish rissoles became particularly popular in Europe, where fish was often a staple in many diets. The recipe we will be exploring today features cold fish, butter, milk, bread crumbs, flour, anchovy, parsley, pepper, and salt. It is both simple and budget-friendly, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious fish dish without breaking the bank.

To begin, you will need half a pound of cold fish. Pick the fish free from any skin and bones and chop it into small pieces. This can be done with a knife or food processor, depending on your preference.

Next, prepare a smooth thick sauce by combining butter, flour, and milk. You can find detailed instructions on how to make this sauce in other cooking resources. Once the sauce is ready, add anchovy, parsley, pepper, and salt to give it a flavorful kick. Stir in the chopped fish, ensuring it is well incorporated with the sauce.

Transfer the mixture onto a plate and allow it to cool completely. This step is essential as it will help the rissoles hold their shape when formed into balls. Once the mixture is cold, shape it into small balls using your hands.

Prepare a coating for the rissoles by whisking an egg in a bowl. Dip each ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it is well coated, and then roll it in breadcrumbs. This will create a crispy and golden exterior when fried.

Heat a generous amount of hot fat in a frying pan. You can use vegetable oil or any other type of fat suitable for frying. Carefully place the coated rissoles into the hot fat and fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. It is important to fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Once the rissoles are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the rissoles crispy. Arrange them carefully on a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of freshness and color.

Fish rissoles can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce or aioli. They can also be enjoyed as a main course accompanied by a side salad or some roasted vegetables.

Fun fact: Rissoles have different names and variations in different cultures. In Australia, for example, rissoles are commonly made with ground meat and are a popular item on a typical Aussie barbecue. In Brazil, rissoles are often filled with cheese, ham, or shrimp, and are enjoyed as a street food snack.

Similar recipes to fish rissoles include crab cakes, tuna patties, and salmon croquettes. All of these dishes follow a similar concept of combining fish or seafood with various ingredients, shaping them into patties or balls, and then frying them to perfection. Each recipe will have its unique flavors and seasonings, but they all share the deliciousness of fish-based fried treats.

Now that you have the recipe for fish rissoles, you can enjoy this delightful dish at home. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a tasty meal, fish rissoles are sure to impress. Enjoy!