Saint Vincent Saltfish Fritters
Crispy and savory fritters made with salted cod, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of spice, a popular snack and appetizer in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Salted cod(soaked overnight and desalted, flaked)
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 0.5 cup Onion(finely chopped)
- 0.25 cup Bell pepper(finely chopped (any color))
- 2 stalks Scallions(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 tsp Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced (or to taste, seeds removed for less heat))
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Water(approximately, or as needed for batter consistency)
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Ensure the salted cod is thoroughly desalted by soaking it in cold water for at least 8 hours, changing the water several times. Drain, remove any bones and skin, and flake the fish into small pieces.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- 3
Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, scallions, minced garlic, minced scotch bonnet pepper, chopped parsley, and flaked saltfish to the dry ingredients. Mix well to combine.
- 4
Gradually add water, starting with about half a cup, mixing until you achieve a thick batter consistency that holds its shape but is not too dry. The batter should be thick enough to coat the ingredients without being runny.
- 5
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
- 6
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 8
Serve hot as an appetizer or snack, often with a side of hot sauce or a dipping sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Properly desalting the cod is crucial to avoid overly salty fritters.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to the batter for extra flavor.
- Incorporate shredded coconut for a slightly sweet note.