Bolinhos de Bacalhau, or codfish fritters, are a beloved Brazilian snack that captures the essence of Brazil’s culinary traditions.
Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, these fritters are a must-have at family gatherings, celebrations, and even casual get-togethers.
In this article, we’ll take you through a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to making Bolinhos de Bacalhau at home. From preparing the salted cod (bacalhau) to achieving the perfect golden crust, you’ll master this iconic dish in no time.
What Are Bolinhos de Bacalhau?
Bolinhos de Bacalhau are crispy, golden-brown codfish fritters made from a mixture of salted cod (bacalhau) and mashed potatoes. The combination of the savory fish and creamy potato creates a delicious contrast in both flavor and texture, making them a popular appetizer or snack.
These fritters trace their origins to Portuguese cuisine, where salted cod has been a staple for centuries. As Portuguese immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Brazil, Bolinhos de Bacalhau evolved into a beloved Brazilian snack.
Today, they are enjoyed throughout the country, cherished for their rich flavor and cultural history.
Occasions: Bolinhos de Bacalhau are commonly served at family gatherings, festive celebrations, and casual get-togethers. They also make an appearance as a popular bar snack, often paired with a cold beer or caipirinha.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Codfish: The star of the dish is salted cod, or bacalhau. Before using it, you’ll need to prepare the fish by soaking it in water to remove the excess salt. This process typically takes 24-48 hours, with water changes every few hours. Once desalted, the cod is flaked and mixed with the other ingredients.
Potatoes: To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, it’s essential to use starchy potatoes, like Russet or Idaho. These varieties help bind the ingredients together and give the fritters a light and crispy bite.
Other Ingredients: The rest of the ingredients bring out the delicious flavors of the Bolinhos de Bacalhau:
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (8 grams)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (100 grams / 3.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (10 grams)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (120 grams / 4.2 oz)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bolinhos de Bacalhau
Preparation
Soaking and Desalting the Bacalhau: Start by soaking your salted cod in cold water for 24-48 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours. This process removes the excess salt and rehydrates the fish, making it tender and ready for cooking.
Once desalted, drain the water and gently squeeze the fish to remove any remaining moisture. Flake the cod into small pieces, checking for any bones.
Cooking the Potatoes and Fish
Boiling the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes (500 grams / 1.1 lbs) into even-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Drain and mash the potatoes until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps, as this will help with the texture of the fritters.
Cooking the Cod: In a separate pan, cook the flaked cod in simmering water for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
You can also sauté the cod with onions and garlic for added flavor before mixing with the potatoes.
Mixing the Ingredients
Creating the Fritter Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked cod, minced garlic (2 cloves / 8 grams), finely chopped onion (1 medium onion / 100 grams), and fresh parsley (2 tablespoons / 10 grams). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add two beaten eggs and mix until the ingredients are evenly combined and form a cohesive mixture.
Shaping the Fritters
Forming the Fritters: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop small amounts of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into bite-sized balls. You can shape them into small ovals or round balls, depending on your preference.
Frying Tips
Frying to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the fritters in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn a deep golden-brown and crispy on the outside.
Once cooked, remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot!
Tips for the Best Bolinhos de Bacalhau
Texture Tips
Balancing the Potato-to-Fish Ratio: The perfect Bolinhos de Bacalhau should have a delicate balance between potatoes and codfish. Aim for a ratio of 2:1, with 500 grams (1.1 lbs) of potatoes to 250 grams (0.55 lbs) of bacalhau. This ensures the fritters are not too dense but still flavorful.
If your mixture feels too soft, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients without altering the texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the potatoes and codfish, mix gently to avoid overworking the ingredients. Overmixing can make the fritters tough and chewy, whereas a light hand will result in a fluffy, tender texture.
Flavor Boosters
Enhancing with Herbs and Spices: While the classic Bolinhos de Bacalhau recipe uses parsley, feel free to experiment by adding other herbs like cilantro or chives for a fresh twist. For a kick of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika can elevate the flavor.
Try Different Dipping Sauces: Serve Bolinhos de Bacalhau with various dipping sauces to add more flavor. Aioli, spicy mayo, or a simple squeeze of lemon juice are great complements.
You can also try a garlic and olive oil sauce for a more traditional touch, or a tomato-based salsa for a Brazilian-inspired twist.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Pairings
Squeeze of Lime: A traditional way to enjoy Bolinhos de Bacalhau is with a simple squeeze of fresh lime juice. The citrus adds a bright, tangy contrast to the savory fritters.
Dipping Sauces: Garlic aioli is a popular accompaniment for Bolinhos de Bacalhau, offering a rich, creamy flavor that complements the codfish. You can also serve them with a spicy mayo or a tangy tomato-based dipping sauce for a modern twist.
Brazilian Drinks: Pairing these delicious fritters with a classic Brazilian caipirinha is a match made in heaven. The zesty lime and sugarcane spirit balance the savory flavors of the codfish. For non-alcoholic options, try serving them with fresh tropical juices like passion fruit or pineapple.
Occasions
Appetizers or Party Snacks: Bolinhos de Bacalhau make for perfect appetizers at gatherings and family celebrations. They’re easy to eat with your hands and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Tapas-Style Meal: For a more varied meal, serve Bolinhos de Bacalhau alongside other small dishes like empadas, croquettes, or pão de queijo for a Brazilian-inspired tapas night.
Weekend Entertaining: These fritters are also ideal for weekend get-togethers or game-day parties, offering a satisfying snack to share with friends and family.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Baked Version
A Healthier Option: For a lighter version of Bolinhos de Bacalhau, try baking them instead of frying. Simply preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and brush each fritter with a little olive oil before baking.
Cook for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fritters are golden and crispy. This method reduces the amount of oil while still delivering great flavor and texture.
Adding Ingredients
Cheese-Stuffed Fritters: For a modern twist on the classic recipe, you can stuff the fritters with a small cube of cheese, such as mozzarella or cream cheese, before shaping and cooking them. The melted cheese adds a creamy surprise in the center, making them even more irresistible.
Herbs and Spices: Give the recipe a new flavor profile by incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the mixture. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or a finely chopped chili pepper. These variations can elevate the classic Bolinhos de Bacalhau and suit a variety of taste preferences.
Vegetable Add-Ins: You can also experiment by adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mixture. This adds both color and flavor, making the fritters more vibrant and nutrient-packed.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Freezing Bolinhos de Bacalhau
How to Store: To enjoy Bolinhos de Bacalhau later, you can freeze them. After frying the fritters, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating for Crispy Perfection
Oven Method: To maintain their crispy texture when reheating, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the frozen fritters on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. You can also spray or brush them with a little olive oil before reheating to enhance the crispiness.
Air Fryer Method: If you have an air fryer, it’s a great option for reheating Bolinhos de Bacalhau. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F), place the frozen fritters inside, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Avoid the Microwave: While the microwave is quick, it can make the fritters soggy and lose their crisp texture. For the best results, always opt for oven or air fryer reheating.
Recap
Bolinhos de Bacalhau are a delightful and simple snack that brings the flavors of Brazilian and Portuguese cuisine right to your table. From preparing the salted cod (bacalhau) to perfectly balancing the fish and potato mixture, making these crispy fritters is easier than it looks.
Whether you fry them for a traditional result or bake them for a healthier twist, Bolinhos de Bacalhau will impress your guests with their golden, crispy exterior and soft, flavorful inside.
We hope you feel inspired to try making Bolinhos de Bacalhau at home!
Share your results with us in the comments or on social media—whether it’s your first attempt or a family tradition.
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