Time and Servings:
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 480mg
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb salted codfish, soaked overnight and flaked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1/4 cup sofrito
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare Codfish:
- Soak the salted codfish in cold water overnight, changing the water at least twice to remove excess salt. Drain, rinse, and flake into small pieces.
- Make Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and water until smooth. Stir in the sofrito and flaked codfish, mixing until fully incorporated. The batter should have a slightly thick, pancake-like consistency. Adjust with more water if needed.
- Heat Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles immediately upon contact.
- Fry Fritters:
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, spreading slightly to form thin fritters. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm as a side dish or snack.
Tips for Success:
- Thin Batter: A slightly thin batter ensures the fritters are light and crispy. Avoid making the batter too thick.
- Test Fry: Fry a small spoonful of batter first to test the oil temperature and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Even Frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fritters.
- Storage Tip: Bacalaitos taste best fresh but can be reheated in an oven to restore crispiness.
Wine, Cocktail, Drink Pairing:
Pair these savory fritters with a cold Pilsner Beer or a refreshing glass of Mojito to complement the salty and herbaceous flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with chilled Coconut Water for a tropical flair.
