Discover the perfect Saltfish Fritters recipe! These crispy, deep-fried balls, made with salted cod, flour, and a blend of aromatic spices, are a delicious treat that pairs well with any meal. Ideal as an appetizer or snack, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Try it today for a taste of crispy perfection!

Ingredients:

- 1/2 pound salted codfish

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup cornmeal

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

- 1 large egg

- 1/2 cup cold water

- Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Codfish:

  - Rinse the salted codfish under cold water. Place it in a bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight, changing the water occasionally.

  - Drain and pat dry. Remove any bones and skin, then flake the codfish into small pieces.

Mix the Ingredients:

  - In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, dried thyme, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

  - Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and parsley. Mix well.

  - In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add it to the dry ingredients, along with the cold water. Stir until just combined. The batter should be thick but drop from a spoon.

Incorporate the Codfish:

  - Gently fold the flaked codfish into the batter, making sure it's evenly distributed.

Heat the Oil:

  - Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Fry the Fritters:

  - Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

  - Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

  - Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters and drain them on paper towels.

Serve:

  - Serve the saltfish fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful treat!

Notes:

- Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.

- For a twist, try adding chopped fresh chili peppers for extra heat.

Enjoy your delicious Saltfish Fritters!

Nutritional Values

Salted Codfish (1/2 pound / 225g)

  - Calories: Approximately 250

  - Protein: 50g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits: High in protein, contains essential omega-3 fatty acids, and is a good source of minerals like iodine and selenium.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 120g)

  - Calories: Approximately 455

  - Protein: 13g

  - Carbohydrates: 95g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, contains small amounts of protein and some B vitamins.

Cornmeal (1/2 cup / 60g)

  - Calories: Approximately 220

  - Protein: 4g

  - Carbohydrates: 50g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits: High in carbohydrates and fiber, provides some B vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium.

Onion (1 small)

  - Calories: Approximately 30

  - Protein: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds, supports immune function, and adds flavor.

Bell Pepper (1 small)

  - Calories: Approximately 20

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 5g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, supports immune function and digestion.

Garlic (2 cloves)

  - Calories: Approximately 10

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains allicin with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, supports heart health, and boosts the immune system.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 3

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.7g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and essential oils, supports digestive health, and adds flavor.

Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 3

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits: Enhances flavor, contains piperine which may aid in nutrient absorption and digestion.

Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 3

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits: Provides antioxidants like vitamin A, adds flavor, and may support eye health.

Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional)

  - Calories: Approximately 6

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits: Contains capsaicin which has metabolism-boosting properties and may support pain relief and digestive health.

Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

  - Calories: Approximately 5

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Used as a leavening agent in baking, helps create a light and airy texture in baked goods.

Fresh Parsley (1/2 cup, chopped)

  - Calories: Approximately 10

  - Protein: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, contains antioxidants, and supports overall health.

Egg (1 large)

  - Calories: Approximately 70

  - Protein: 6g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Fat: 5g

Benefits: High-quality protein, provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, and supports muscle and brain health.

Cold Water (1/2 cup)

  - Calories: 0

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Hydrates the body and is essential for various bodily functions.

Vegetable Oil (for frying, 2 tablespoons / 30ml)

  - Calories: Approximately 240

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 27g

Benefits: Adds flavor and richness, provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E.