Bacalaitos Cod Fritters Recipe

Experience the taste of Puerto Rico with these crispy, golden Bacalaitos! A beloved national dish, these cod fritters are incredibly flavorful despite the finely chopped cod. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. Warning: irresistibly delicious and slightly caloric – but totally worth indulging in at least twice a year!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Calories 117 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 4.5 (4 Reviews)
Bacalaitos Cod Fritters 88

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Bacalaitos Cod Fritters

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How to Make Bacalaitos Cod Fritters

  1. Cut 1 pound of salt cod into small chunks. Place in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for 15 minutes.
  2. Drain the cod, remove any bones, rinse thoroughly, and shred using two forks.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 2 teaspoons baking powder.
  4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
  5. Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of water, mixing until a thick batter forms.
  6. Stir in 1 teaspoon black pepper and 1 tablespoon sazón seasoning.
  7. In a mortar and pestle, crush 4 cloves garlic and 1/2 cup of fresh culantro leaves.
  8. Add the crushed garlic and culantro to the batter and mix well.
  9. Gently fold in the shredded cod.
  10. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat (approximately 350°F/175°C).
  11. Using a large spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  12. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, turning as needed.
  13. Remove the bacalaitos from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

6g

Carbs

2g