If you’re looking to infuse some charm and warmth into your meals, look no further than the cozy and inviting flavors of Newfoundland cuisine. Traditional Newfoundland recipes are a delightful blend of hearty ingredients and time-honored cooking methods that have been passed down through generations. One exceptional dish that embodies the essence of Newfoundland culinary heritage is the scrumptious Saltfish Cakes.
**Saltfish Cakes**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb salted codfish
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 2 eggs
– Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by soaking the salted codfish in a bowl of cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times to remove excess salt. Once properly desalinated, drain the codfish and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes until tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them in a mixing bowl until smooth.
3. Shred the soaked and drained codfish into small pieces and add it to the mashed potatoes. Mix in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Season the mixture with black pepper and paprika, combining all ingredients thoroughly.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and crack the eggs into the bowl. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined and a slightly sticky consistency is achieved.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Take a spoonful of the saltfish and potato mixture and form it into a patty, gently pressing to flatten.
6. Carefully place the formed saltfish cake into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry each cake until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Remove the cooked Saltfish Cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining mixture until all cakes are cooked.
8. Serve the Saltfish Cakes hot as a delightful appetizer or main dish. Pair them with a tangy dill pickle relish or a dollop of creamy tartar sauce for a burst of flavor.
Incorporating this recipe for Saltfish Cakes into your culinary repertoire is a delightful way to savor the traditional flavors of Newfoundland cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family meal or shared with friends at a gathering, these savory cakes are sure to evoke the comforting essence of coastal living. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to the charming shores of Newfoundland with this delectable dish.
