Teresa's Recipes
Bacalaitos (Crispy Salted Cod Fritters)
Bacalaitos are a beloved Puerto Rican street food, known for their crispy exterior and savory, flavorful interior. These delightful fritters are made from salted codfish, combined with a seasoned batter that creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Traditionally served at festive gatherings and beachside stalls, bacalaitos are a delicious way to experience the rich culinary heritage of Puerto Rico. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, paired with a zesty dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Salted codfish
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 3/4 cup (adjust as needed) Water
- for frying Vegetable oil
- to taste Additional salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4-6
- Dish Type: Appetizer/Snack
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 0g
Instructions
- Soak the salted codfish in water overnight to remove excess salt. After soaking, drain and rinse the codfish thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
- Gradually add the water to the dry ingredients while whisking until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter. Adjust the water amount as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Shred the soaked and rinsed codfish into small pieces and fold it gently into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove the bacalaitos from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle with additional salt to taste while they are still hot.
- Serve the bacalaitos warm, accompanied by a dipping sauce such as a spicy aioli or a tangy garlic sauce for a delightful flavor boost.
Tips
- For a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the batter.
- You can also experiment with different herbs, such as cilantro or chives, to complement the flavors of the codfish.
- Serve the bacalaitos alongside a refreshing salad or rice and beans for a complete meal.