Bolinhos de bacalhau facts for kids
Bolinhos de bacalhau (say "boh-LEEN-yos jee bah-kah-LYOW") are tasty little fried cakes from Portugal and Brazil. In some parts of Portugal, especially around Lisbon, they are called pastéis de bacalhau (say "pash-TAYSH jee bah-kah-LYOW"). These names both mean "codfish cakes" or "codfish pastries." They are a very popular snack or appetizer.
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What Are These Delicious Cakes?
Bolinhos de bacalhau are like small, crispy fritters. They are made from a special mix of ingredients. The main ingredient is bacalhau, which is codfish that has been salted and dried. This way of preserving fish was very important before refrigerators existed!
What Ingredients Are Used?
These yummy cakes are usually made with:
- Cooked and flaked bacalhau (salted codfish)
- Mashed potatoes
- Eggs
- Fresh parsley
- Chopped onion
- Sometimes, a tiny bit of nutmeg for extra flavor
How Are They Made?
Making bolinhos de bacalhau is a bit like an art!
- First, the salted codfish is soaked to remove the extra salt, then cooked and shredded.
- The codfish is mixed with mashed potatoes, eggs, and seasonings.
- Chefs use two spoons to shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped cakes. This gives them their unique look.
- Finally, the cakes are deep-fried until they are golden brown and crispy.
How Do People Enjoy Bolinhos?
Bolinhos de bacalhau can be eaten in many ways.
- They are often served hot, right after they are fried.
- You can also enjoy them cold.
- They make a great appetizer or snack before a meal.
- Sometimes, they are served as a main dish with rice, a fresh salad, and olives.
- The best ones are crunchy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.
Where Else Are They Popular?
These codfish cakes are also known in other places around the world. For example, in the French Antilles, they are called accras de morue. This shows how popular and widespread this delicious dish has become!
