Crispy Salt Cod Fritters: Golden Bites of Coastal Flavor
Share
You haven’t truly snacked until you’ve had a crispy, golden Salt Cod Fritter fresh from the pan. These little bites are crunchy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside, and full of that beautiful coastal flavor we love.
Inspired by Portuguese pastéis de bacalhau, these fritters are made with flaky salt cod, creamy potatoes, fresh herbs, garlic, and a simple finishing drizzle of our Garlic or Basil Olive Oil. That final touch adds just the right amount of richness and bright, herby flavor.
They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, cocktail hour, or anytime your tastebuds need a mini vacation. Serve them hot with lime wedges, a dollop of aioli, or herbed yogurt sauce for an appetizer that feels extra special without being fussy.
Tracey’s Tip: Don’t skip the lime at the end—it brightens up the fritters beautifully and balances the savory salt cod.
Salt Cod Fritters (Pastéis de Bacalhau)
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Appetizers
Cuisine
Portuguese
Author:
Servings
4-6
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Calories
352
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—these traditional salt cod fritters are loaded with flaky fish, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of garlic. Serve them hot with lime wedges and a drizzle of Garlic or Basil Olive Oil.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb dried salt cod, soaked overnight
- 1/2 lb russet potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Garlic or Basil Olive Oil (for finishing)
- Neutral oil for frying
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Soak salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing water 2–3 times.
- Boil cod for 10–12 minutes until tender. Drain and flake.
- Mash the cooked potatoes in a bowl. Add flaked cod, garlic, parsley, chives, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Scoop and shape mixture into small balls or ovals.
- Heat neutral oil in a deep pan to 350°F.
- Fry fritters in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Drizzle with Garlic or Basil Olive Oil, squeeze fresh lime over the top, and serve hot.
Recipe Note
Optional Variations:
Serve with aioli or herbed yogurt sauce
Finish with Garlic Olive Oil for a savory bite or Basil Olive Oil for a fresh, herbaceous flavor
Tracey’s Notes:
These golden little bites are one of those appetizers that disappear fast. The salt cod gives them that classic coastal flavor, while the Garlic or Basil Olive Oil adds a beautiful finishing touch.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Nutrition Serving Size
- 4 fritters
- per serving
- Calories
- 352
- Carbs
- 11 grams
- 4%
- Protein
- 38 grams
- 77%
- Fat
- 16 grams
- 25%
- Saturated Fat
- 2 grams
- 13%
- Trans Fat
- 0 grams
- Cholesterol
- 127 milligrams
- 42%
- Fiber
- 1 grams
- 3%
- Sugar
- 0 grams
- Sodium
- 4102 milligrams
- 178%
- Iron
- 2 milligrams
- 12%
- Potassium
- 1094 milligrams
- 31%