Bajan Fish Cakes
Crispy, golden fritters packed with salted cod, herbs, and a hint of spice, these Bajan fish cakes are a beloved Barbadian snack or appetizer.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Salted cod fish(filleted, bones removed, soaked and boiled until tender)
- 0.5 cup Onion(minced)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 4 sprigs Thyme(leaves removed from stems)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced, seeds removed for less heat (optional))
- 1.25 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Baking powder
- 1 large Egg(lightly beaten)
- 0.75 cup Whole milk
- 2 tablespoons Butter(melted)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- Vegetable oil(for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the salted cod: Boil the salted cod in water for about 5 minutes. Drain and let it cool. Flake the fish with a fork, removing any bones.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the flaked cod, minced onion, garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, and minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure the scotch bonnet pepper is finely minced and seeds are removed if you prefer less heat. - 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk the beaten egg, milk, and melted butter.
💡 Tip: Whisking the egg, milk, and butter separately ensures a smoother batter. - 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the fish mixture, stirring until just combined. Then, pour in the wet ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms. Season with black pepper.
💡 Tip: Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in tough fish cakes. - 5
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat until hot (around 350°F or 180°C).
- 6
Using a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly. Fry in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy fish cakes. - 7
Remove the fish cakes with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Serve with Bajan pepper sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking salted cod overnight in water can help remove excess salt before boiling.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time. If too thin, add a tablespoon of flour.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of ground thyme or marjoram to the batter for extra flavor.
- For a lighter texture, some recipes include mashed boiled potato in the batter.