Discover the secrets of crafting Pataniscas de Bacalhau,a beloved Portuguese treat of crispy cod fritters.it also knowas Traditional Portuguese CodfishFritters.

This recipe showcases a rich batter blending flour, eggs, and finely minced cod, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Follow our detailed guide to recreate this cultural delight at home and delight loved ones with a taste of Portugal's culinary legacy.

Ingredients:

  - 300g dried salted codfish (Bacalhau)

  - 200g all-purpose flour

  - 2 eggs

  - 1 small onion, finely chopped

  - 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  - 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - Olive oil for frying

  - Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1-Start by soaking the dried salted codfish in cold water for 24 to 48 hours, changing the water every 8 hours to remove excess salt. Once soaked, drain the codfish and shred it into small pieces, removing any bones or skin.

2-In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded codfish, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.

3-In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually add the flour and baking powder, stirring until you have a smooth batter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4-Pour the batter over the codfish mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined. The batter should coat the codfish evenly.

5-Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the codfish batter into the pan, shaping them into small fritters. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.

6-Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

7-Serve the Pataniscas de Bacalhau hot, accompanied by lemon wedges if desired. They can be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer, snack, or part of a meal.

Enjoy your homemade Pataniscas de Bacalhau!

Nutritional Values :

Dried salted codfish (Bacalhau) - 300g:

  - Calories: 288

  - Protein: 67g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fiber: 0g

  - Sodium: 15,600mg (Note: This value may vary depending on the soaking process)

benefits :

  - High in protein: Helps in muscle repair and growth, aids in satiety.

  - Low in fat: Suitable for those looking to manage their fat intake.

  - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and may improve brain function.

All-purpose flour - 200g:

  - Calories: 720

  - Protein: 20g

  - Fat: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 152g

  - Fiber: 6g

  - Sugar: 0g

  - Sodium: 4mg

benefits :

  - Provides energy: Carbohydrates in flour serve as the body's primary source of energy.

  - Contains fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps maintain regular bowel movements.

  - Contains essential nutrients: Enriched flour provides nutrients such as iron and B vitamins, which are important for overall health.

Eggs - 2 large:

  - Calories: 140

  - Protein: 12g

  - Fat: 10g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Fiber: 0g

  - Sugar: 1g

  - Sodium: 124mg

benefits :

  - Excellent source of high-quality protein: Supports muscle growth, repair, and maintenance.

  - Good source of healthy fats: Contains omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

  - Rich in vitamins and minerals: Eggs provide essential nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, which are important for various bodily functions including bone health, energy production, and brain function.

Onion (1 small) - approximate:

  - Calories: 20

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 5g

  - Fiber: 1g

  - Sugar: 2.5g

  - Sodium: 2mg

benefits :

  - Low in calories: Helps in weight management and provides bulk to meals without adding excess calories.

  - Contains antioxidants: Onions are rich in compounds like quercetin and sulfur compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

  - Good source of fiber: Supports digestive health, aids in satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic (2 cloves):

  - Calories: 10

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fiber: 0g

  - Sugar: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

benefits :

  - Immune-boosting properties: Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which have been shown to enhance immune function and may help reduce the severity of colds and flu.

  - Anti-inflammatory effects: Garlic may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with various chronic diseases.

  - Cardiovascular benefits: Garlic has been linked to improved heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Fresh parsley (1/4 cup chopped):

  - Calories: 1

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

  - Fiber: 0.1g

  - Sugar: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

benefits :

  - Rich in antioxidants: Parsley contains flavonoids and other antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

  - Good source of vitamin K: Supports bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.

  - Contains vitamin C: Contributes to a healthy immune system and collagen production.

Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon):

  - Negligible calories and nutrients

Olive oil for frying:

  - Calories: 120 per tablespoon (approximately)

  - Fat: 14g per tablespoon (approximately)

benefits :

  - Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and improved cholesterol levels.

  - Anti-inflammatory properties: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory effects similar to ibuprofen.

  - Rich in antioxidants: Olive oil is a good source of vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

These values are meant to give you a general idea of the nutritional content of the ingredients used in the recipe. Keep in mind that cooking methods and serving sizes can also impact the final nutritional values of the dish.