These Easy Portuguese Bacalhau Fritters are a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion! They’re surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet deliver a burst of authentic Portuguese flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious recipe.
Preparing the Bacalhau
Begin by preparing the bacalhau (salt cod). If using dry-cured bacalhau, you’ll need to rehydrate it. This involves soaking the cod in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water several times. Once rehydrated, gently flake the cod, removing any bones. For convenience, you can also use pre-cooked, desalted bacalhau, readily available at many Portuguese markets or online. Check out this guide for rehydrating bacalhau if you are using dry-cured cod for the first time. 
Mixing the Fritter Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flaked bacalhau with finely chopped onion, garlic, and fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper (remember the bacalhau is already salty, so taste as you go!). Gradually add the beaten eggs, mixing gently to combine. Next, add the flour, mixing until a thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to a thick pancake batter. If it’s too dry, add a little milk; if it’s too wet, add more flour. Learn more about the perfect batter consistency.
Forming and Frying the Fritters
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of batter should sizzle immediately), carefully spoon the bacalhau mixture into the skillet, forming small, round fritters. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. 
Serving Suggestions
These fritters are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Aioli, aioli (garlic mayonnaise), or even a simple lemon wedge complements the salty bacalhau beautifully. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a simple salad or as part of a larger Portuguese tapas spread. Discover more delicious Portuguese tapas recipes here.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can give the fritters a nice kick. You can also add other vegetables to the batter, such as diced potatoes or bell peppers. For a crispier fritter, allow the batter to rest for 15-20 minutes before frying. Here’s a video showing the frying technique. [IMAGE_3_HERE]
Enjoy Your Bacalhau Fritters!
With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create an authentic and flavorful Portuguese dish that will delight your taste buds. These easy bacalhau fritters are perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion. So why not give them a try? Let us know in the comments how yours turned out! Find more amazing recipes here!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bacalhau should I use? You can use either dry-cured or pre-cooked, desalted bacalhau. Just be sure to follow the instructions for rehydrating the dry-cured version if needed.
Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before frying.
How do I store leftover fritters? Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a pan or oven before serving.
Can I freeze these fritters? Yes, you can freeze the cooked fritters. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
What other dipping sauces would go well with these fritters? A spicy tomato sauce, chimichurri, or even a simple vinaigrette would be delicious alternatives.