What are Pastéis de Bacalhau?
Pastéis de Bacalhau, also known as bolinhos de bacalhau, are traditional Portuguese snacks. They are mainly composed of salted cod, potatoes, and herbs. The mixture is shaped into small balls and fried to a golden color. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they perfectly balance the fishy taste with the delicacy of the potatoes.
History and Origin
Pastéis de Bacalhau have a long history that dates back several centuries. Cod was a key component of the Portuguese diet due to its easy availability and long shelf life. Combined with potatoes, it formed the basis of many simple dishes.
Step-by-step Preparation
1. **Soaking the cod:** Before cooking, salted cod must be soaked in water. This process typically takes 24-48 hours.
2. **Cooking the potatoes:** Cook the potatoes until soft. Then peel and mash them to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. **Preparing the filling:** Mix shredded cod with the potatoes and add herbs such as parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
4. **Forming balls:** Shape the resulting mixture into small balls.
5. **Frying:** Fry the balls in deep oil until they become golden and crispy.
Are they really delicious?
Pastéis de Bacalhau are appreciated for their unique taste and texture. The combination of salted cod with soft potatoes creates a harmonious composition. They are perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion. Many people consider them a must-try culinary point when visiting Portugal.
What to serve with Pastéis de Bacalhau?
These fried cod balls pair perfectly with fresh salads. They are often served with aioli sauce or mayonnaise. In some places, they are served with a glass of white wine, which enhances their flavor.
Summary
Pastéis de Bacalhau are not just a tasty snack. They are an integral part of Portuguese culinary tradition. Their simplicity in preparation and unique taste make them extremely popular both in Portugal and beyond its borders. If you haven’t tried them yet, they are definitely worth a taste!
