Discover the authentic taste of Accras de Morue with this easy-to-follow recipe. These savory salted cod fritters, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, are perfect for appetizers or snacks. Learn how to prepare these crispy, flavorful treats that are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

- 300g salted cod

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions

- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red and green)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 large egg

- 1/2 cup water (or as needed)

- Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Salted Cod:

  - Soak the salted cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Drain and pat dry.

  - Flake the cod into small pieces, removing any bones and skin.

Make the Batter:

  - In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, black pepper, paprika, cumin, thyme, and parsley.

  - Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the dry ingredients.

  - Mix in the flaked cod.

Add the Egg and Water:

  - Beat the egg and add it to the mixture.

  - Gradually add water, stirring until you achieve a thick, but slightly runny batter.

Fry the Fritters:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.

  - Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.

  - Fry in batches, turning once, until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve:

  - Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  - Serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Enjoy your homemade Accras de Morue as a delicious appetizer or snack!

Nutritional Values

Salted Cod (300g)

  - Calories: 300 kcal

  - Protein: 60g

  - Fat: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: High in protein and low in fat, salted cod is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. It's also rich in vitamins B12 and D, which aid in energy production and bone health.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

  - Calories: 455 kcal

  - Protein: 13g

  - Fat: 1.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 95g

Benefits: While primarily a source of carbohydrates, all-purpose flour provides energy. Fortified versions may contain essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, which support metabolism and overall health.

Onions (1/2 cup, chopped)

  - Calories: 32 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Onions are low in calories and high in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain fiber that aids digestion and sulfur compounds that promote heart health.

Bell Peppers (1/2 cup, chopped)

  - Calories: 19 kcal

  - Protein: 0.6g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 4.6g

Benefits: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health. They also provide antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 9 kcal

  - Protein: 0.4g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties due to its sulfur compounds, particularly allicin. It may also help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.

Thyme (1 teaspoon, fresh)

  - Calories: 1 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

Benefits: Thyme is a good source of vitamins C and A, which support immune function and vision. Its antimicrobial properties can also help protect against infections.

Parsley (1 teaspoon, chopped)

  - Calories: 1 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

Benefits: Parsley is rich in vitamins K and C, which are important for bone health and immune function. It also contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.8g

Benefits: Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances the absorption of nutrients and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also aids digestion and may help improve gut health.

Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.7g

Benefits: Paprika is rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids, which support eye health. It also contains vitamin E, which is essential for skin health.

Ground Cumin (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 4 kcal

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.4g

Benefits: Cumin is known for its digestive benefits, helping to reduce bloating and improve digestion. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Baking powder is primarily used as a leavening agent and doesn't provide significant nutritional benefits, but it helps create light and fluffy fritters.

Egg (1 large)

  - Calories: 72 kcal

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 5g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

Benefits: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, which are important for brain health and metabolism.

Vegetable Oil (for frying)

  - Calories: 120 kcal (per tablespoon)

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 14g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Vegetable oil provides a source of essential fatty acids, but it should be used in moderation. Opt for oils with a higher smoke point, like canola or sunflower oil, for frying to maintain heart-healthy benefits.

Accras de Morue is a flavorful dish packed with nutrients. The salted cod provides a protein-rich base, while the herbs and spices add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The combination of ingredients not only makes this dish delicious but also supports heart health, digestion, and overall well-being.