Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest country in the world, with a population of over 211 million people. It is known for its diverse geography, ranging from the Amazon rainforest to beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast. The country is also home to a rich cultural heritage, including music, dance, and art.

Brazilian cuisine is influenced by a mix of African, European, and indigenous cultures. Bolinho de Bacalhau, also known as Codfish Fritters, is a popular dish in Brazil that originated in Portugal. The dish is made with salted codfish, mashed potatoes, herbs, and spices, which are formed into small balls and fried until golden brown.

In addition to Bolinho de Bacalhau, Brazilian cuisine features other iconic dishes such as Feijoada, a hearty black bean stew with pork and beef, and Pão de Queijo, a cheese bread made with tapioca flour. Brazilian cuisine is also known for its churrasco, or grilled meat, and tropical fruits like passion fruit and guava.

Brazil is a vibrant and diverse country with a rich history and culture. Whether you're exploring the bustling cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Bahia or Florianópolis, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Brazil.

Ingredients:

1- 500g of salted codfish

2- 2 cups of boiled potatoes, mashed

3- 1 small onion, finely chopped

4- 1 garlic clove, minced

5- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped

6- 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, finely chopped

7- 2 eggs

8- 1 cup of flour

9- 1 teaspoon of baking powder

10- Salt and black pepper to taste

11- Oil for frying

Here is a step-by-step method for making Bolinho de Bacalhau:

Step 1:

Soak the codfish in water overnight, changing the water at least twice, to remove excess salt.

Step 2:

Boil the codfish for 15 minutes, or until it's cooked through. Drain and let it cool.

Step 3:

Remove the skin and bones from the codfish, and shred it into small pieces.

Step 4:

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded codfish, mashed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, and eggs. Mix well.

Step 5:

Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6:

Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Step 7:

Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, form small balls with the codfish mixture.

Step 8:

Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown, turning them occasionally.

Step 9:

Remove the Bolinho de Bacalhau from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 10:

Serve the Bolinho de Bacalhau hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Note:

Bolinho de Bacalhau is a versatile dish that can be modified to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add chopped bell peppers, grated cheese, or hot sauce to the mixture for a different flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 182
• Total fat: 7g
• Saturated fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 376mg
• Total carbohydrates: 16g
• Dietary fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 14g

Here are the approximate nutritional values for each ingredient based on standard measurements:

500g of salted codfish:

• Calories: 735 kcal
• Protein: 161g
• Fat: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Sodium: 14,500mg (varies with soaking and desalting process)

benefits:

• High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, potassium, and selenium.

2 cups of boiled potatoes, mashed:

• Calories: 348 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sodium: 20mg (without added salt)

benefits:

• Rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body.
• Good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
• Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Provides fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

1 small onion, finely chopped (about 70g):

• Calories: 28 kcal
• Protein: 0.8g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 6.5g
• Fiber: 1.2g
• Sodium: 2mg

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, which are important for immune function and metabolism.

1 garlic clove, minced (about 3g):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Sodium: 1mg

benefits:

• Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties, including allicin, which has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
• May boost the immune system and help fight common illnesses like the cold and flu.

2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 8g):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Protein: 0.3g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sodium: 2mg

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage.
• May help reduce inflammation and improve bone health.

2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, finely chopped (about 8g):

• Calories: 2 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1mg

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and may help lower blood sugar levels.
• Has antibacterial properties and may help prevent food poisoning.

2 eggs:

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 140mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, which is important for muscle strength and repair.
• Rich in choline, which is important for brain health and development.
• Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.

1 cup of flour (about 120g):

• Calories: 455 kcal
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 1.2g
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Fiber: 3.4g
• Sodium: 2mg

benefits:

• Contains carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body.
• Contains some protein and fiber, although not as much as whole grains.

1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 4g):

• Calories: 2 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg

benefits:

• Helps baked goods rise and become light and fluffy.

Salt and black pepper to taste:

• The nutritional values for these will depend on the amount used. Typically, negligible for small amounts.

benefits:

• Used in moderation, salt can help maintain proper fluid balance and nerve function.
• Black pepper contains piperine, which may improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

Oil for frying (assuming 1 cup or 240ml absorbed):

• Calories: 1,927 kcal (depends on the type of oil)
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 218g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Provides fats that are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and for cell membrane structure.
• Different oils offer different benefits; for example, olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands, cooking methods, and other factors.

Bolinho de Bacalhau is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it is high in protein and contains healthy fats. However, it is also high in sodium and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.