Pataniscas facts for kids
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Pataniscas served with rice and salad
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| Course | Appetizer, main |
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| Place of origin | Portugal |
| Region or state | Estremadura |
A patanisca is a tasty and popular dish from Portugal. It's a type of savory fritter, often made with shredded bacalhau (salted codfish). People in Porto sometimes call it an isca. These delicious bites are usually fried until golden and crispy.
Pataniscas are made by mixing codfish with a batter of wheat flour, onion, and egg. They are seasoned with salt, parsley, or pepper. While codfish is the classic choice, you can also find pataniscas made with other types of fish, like tuna, or even seafood. There are also vegetarian versions!
Pataniscas are usually about 8–12 cm (3.1–4.7 in) wide. They have a fun, irregular shape. They can be flat or more rounded, depending on how they are made.
Contents
What are Pataniscas?
Pataniscas are a traditional Portuguese food. They are a type of fritter or small cake. The most common kind is made with codfish. This dish is loved all over Portugal. It's a simple yet flavorful meal.
The Main Ingredient: Bacalhau
The word bacalhau means codfish in Portuguese. This fish is very important in Portuguese cooking. It is often dried and salted. This process helps preserve the fish. Before cooking, the salted cod needs to be soaked in water. This removes the extra salt. It also makes the fish soft again.
How Pataniscas are Made
Making pataniscas involves a few steps. First, the codfish is cooked and shredded. Then, it's mixed into a special batter. This batter is made from wheat flour, eggs, and finely chopped onion. Fresh parsley is often added for flavor. Sometimes, a pinch of pepper is included. The mixture is then spooned into hot oil. It is fried until it turns golden brown. This makes the outside crispy and the inside soft.
Serving Pataniscas
Pataniscas are very versatile. They can be served in different ways. Many people enjoy them as an appetizer or a snack. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
As a Main Meal
Pataniscas can also be a main meal. They are often served with a side of rice. A fresh salad is also a common accompaniment. This makes for a light but satisfying dinner. They are a popular choice for lunch too.
Where to Find Them
You can find pataniscas in many restaurants in Portugal. They are also a common homemade dish. Many families have their own special recipes. They are a true taste of Portuguese tradition.
Variations of Pataniscas
While codfish pataniscas are the most famous, there are other exciting versions. Chefs and home cooks love to experiment.
Other Fish and Seafood
Some pataniscas are made with different types of fish. Tuna pataniscas are a tasty alternative. You might also find versions with shrimp or other seafood. These variations offer new flavors.
Vegetarian Options
For those who prefer not to eat fish, there are vegetarian pataniscas. These might use vegetables like carrots or zucchini. They offer a delicious plant-based option. This shows how flexible the patanisca recipe can be.
See also
In Spanish: Pataniscas de bacalhau para niños
