Namibian Fish Cakes with Chakalaka
Crispy, pan-fried fish cakes made from flaked white fish, mashed potatoes, and herbs, served alongside a vibrant and spicy Chakalaka relish. This dish is a popular way to enjoy local fish and the beloved Chakalaka.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g White fish fillets(e.g., hake or kingklip, cooked and flaked)
- 500 g Potatoes(boiled and mashed)
- 1 small Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 large Egg(beaten)
- 50 g Flour(for dusting)
- 100 g Breadcrumbs(for coating)
- for frying Vegetable oil
- For Chakalaka:
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 1 red Bell pepper(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned crushed)
- 200 g Baked beans(in tomato sauce, optional)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1/2 tsp Chili powder(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the fish cakes: In a bowl, combine the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, parsley, lemon juice, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- 2
Shape the mixture into small patties (fish cakes). Dust lightly with flour, then dip in beaten egg, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- 3
For the Chakalaka: Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add chopped bell pepper and grated carrots, and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- 4
Stir in crushed tomatoes, baked beans (if using), curry powder, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the relish has thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- 5
While the Chakalaka simmers, heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the fish cakes in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- 6
Serve the hot fish cakes immediately with the Chakalaka relish on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is well-drained before flaking to avoid soggy fish cakes.
- ✓Don't overmix the fish cake mixture, as this can make them tough.
- ✓Adjust the chili powder in the Chakalaka to your preferred level of heat.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the fish cake mixture for a smoky flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream to cool the Chakalaka's heat.