Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are a delightful treat that combines crispy textures with zesty flavors. These fritters make for an ideal appetizer or light meal, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners. The standout feature of this recipe is the combination of flaky salt cod and a tangy lemon garlic aioli that elevates each bite. Whether you are hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these fritters are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The salt cod fritters have a satisfying crunch, paired with the rich flavor of cod.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a light meal.
• Zesty Aioli: The lemon garlic aioli adds a refreshing twist that complements the fritters perfectly.
• Impressive Presentation: These fritters look great on any table and are sure to wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools for making Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet or frying pan
• Wire rack
• Small mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet or frying pan: Ensures even cooking and allows you to fry multiple fritters at once.
• Wire rack: Helps drain excess oil from the fritters while keeping them crispy.

Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 1 lb salt cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours (changing water several times)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Lemon Garlic Aioli

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Step 1: Prepare the Salt Cod

Once the salt cod has been soaked, drain it well and flake it into small pieces. Gently remove any remaining bones.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
5. Black pepper

Add in:
– Chopped parsley and dill.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– Lightly beaten egg
– Milk

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add Salt Cod

Gently fold in the flaked salt cod until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot:
– Drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 6: Cook Fritters

Fry for about:
– 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Aioli

While the fritters are frying, prepare aioli by combining in a small bowl:
– Mayonnaise
– Minced garlic
– Lemon juice
– Chopped parsley
– Lemon zest

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm salt cod fritters immediately with lemon garlic aioli for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Serving salt cod fritters with lemon garlic aioli can elevate your dining experience. These fritters make for a delightful appetizer or a light meal, and pairing them with the right sides can enhance their flavors.

As Appetizers

• Small Bites: Serve the fritters on a platter for guests to enjoy as finger food.
• Garnished with Herbs: Top with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added color and flavor.

With Salads

• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy fritters.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and complements the fritters’ texture.

For Dipping

• Extra Aioli: Offer additional lemon garlic aioli on the side for those who want more dipping sauce.
• Spicy Sauce: Add a spicy sauce option for those who prefer a kick in their meal.

How to Perfect Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

To achieve the best results with your salt cod fritters, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Thoroughly: Ensure you soak the salt cod for at least 12 hours to reduce its saltiness and soften the fish.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the fritters tough.
• Temperature Check: Make sure your frying oil is hot enough before adding batter. This will help create a crispy exterior.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill will provide vibrant flavors that enhance the dish.
• Drain Properly: After frying, let the fritters rest on a wire rack to avoid sogginess from excess oil.

Best Side Dishes for Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Pairing sides with your salt cod fritters can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter offers a savory complement to the fritters.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while balancing the dish’s richness.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an excellent texture contrast.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings freshness and pairs beautifully with lemon flavors.
5. Tomato Salad: A simple tomato salad dressed in olive oil offers acidity that balances out the savory fritters.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can be a satisfying base under the fritters, adding bulk to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking Process: Failing to soak the salt cod properly can lead to overly salty fritters. Ensure you soak the cod for at least 12 hours, changing the water several times to remove excess salt.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough fritters instead of light and airy ones. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not Heating the Oil Enough: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
• Crowding the Pan: Adding too many fritters at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to maintain consistent heat.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted herbs or old mayonnaise can affect flavor quality. Always use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste in both fritters and aioli.
• Serving Cold Fritters: Salt cod fritters are best enjoyed hot. Serve them immediately after frying for optimal taste and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Place cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake fritters on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to soak salt cod?

To soak salt cod effectively, place it in cold water and change the water several times over a period of at least 12 hours. This helps reduce its saltiness.

Can I make Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and fry the fritters ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator or freeze them. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with these fritters?

Salt cod fritters pair well with a variety of sides like fresh salad, pickled vegetables, or even crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Can I customize my lemon garlic aioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other flavors such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for different twists on your lemon garlic aioli.

Final Thoughts

Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are not only crispy and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a light meal, these fritters shine as an appetizer or main dish. Don’t hesitate to customize your aioli or experiment with additional herbs in the batter—get creative and enjoy this wonderful recipe!

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Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are a delightful combination of crispy, golden-brown fritters filled with flaky salt cod and fresh herbs. Each bite is perfectly complemented by the zesty and creamy lemon garlic aioli, making them an exceptional choice for appetizers or light meals. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a casual dinner, these fritters are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and presentation. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve with various sides, this dish brings a taste of coastal cuisine right to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb salt cod fillets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Soak the salt cod in cold water for at least 12 hours, changing the water several times.
2. Drain the cod, flake it into small pieces, and remove any bones.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk; combine with the dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Gently fold in the flaked cod and fresh herbs.
6. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.
7. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown; drain on a wire rack.
8. For the aioli, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, lemon zest in a small bowl; season to taste.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Coastal

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 fritters (90g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Ensure you soak the salt cod thoroughly to reduce its saltiness. Avoid overmixing the batter for light-textured fritters. Serve warm alongside extra aioli for dipping or as part of a meal with salads and vegetables.