Authentic Newfoundland Cod Cakes with a Twist
These flavorful Newfoundland Cod Cakes are a beloved dish inspired by the coastal kitchens of Canada. Perfect for lunch or as a savory snack, they combine tender cod with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh herbs, creating a delightful texture and taste. This recipe highlights a cherished tradition from my dear 'Newfie' friend, evoking the warmth of home-cooked meals and the nostalgia of family gatherings. For an authentic dining experience, enjoy these cod cakes alongside hearty baked beans. If you prefer a healthier version, simply reduce the amount of oil used in the skillet frying. These cakes can also be made with leftover mashed potatoes, though freshly boiled and unadorned potatoes yield a firmer consistency. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these cod cakes are sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion
1 (small, chopped)
Parsley
8 (sprigs, chopped)
Potatoes
2 (cups, boiled and mashed)
Eggs
2 (beaten)
Butter
3 (tablespoons, melted)
Cod
1 (lb, steamed until flaky)
Seasoned bread crumbs
3/4 (cup)
Lite olive oil
1/3 (cup, for frying)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling potatoes until soft. Once cooked, drain and let them cool slightly, then mash them without adding anything.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped onion, chopped parsley, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3
Gently fold in the steamed and flaked cod, using a fork to break it into smaller pieces. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed to maintain a consistent flavor in every bite.
4
Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties approximately 3 inches in diameter.
5
Coat each patty with seasoned bread crumbs for an extra crunch and flavor.
6
In a skillet, heat the lite olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the patties and fry for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7
Once cooked, place the patties on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of these Newfoundland Cod Cakes?
These cod cakes are inspired by the traditional coastal kitchens of Newfoundland, Canada, highlighting a cherished recipe from a local friend.
What are the primary ingredients in Newfoundland Cod Cakes?
The main ingredients include steamed cod, boiled and mashed potatoes, onion, parsley, eggs, butter, and seasoned bread crumbs.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use leftovers, but freshly boiled potatoes mashed without any additions yield a firmer consistency for the patties.
How should the cod be prepared before mixing?
The cod should be steamed until it is flaky and then gently flaked with a fork before being folded into the mixture.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of potatoes that have been boiled and then mashed while plain.
How do I ensure the cod cakes have a crunchy exterior?
Each patty is coated with seasoned bread crumbs before frying to provide an extra crunch.
What is the recommended size for the patties?
The mixture should be shaped into patties approximately 3 inches in diameter.
What type of oil is best for frying cod cakes?
The recipe recommends using 1/3 cup of lite olive oil for skillet frying.
How long do the cod cakes need to cook?
Fry the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach a golden brown and crispy state.
What can I serve with Newfoundland Cod Cakes?
For an authentic experience, these are often served alongside hearty baked beans.
How can I make a healthier version of this recipe?
To reduce calories and fat, you can simply use a smaller amount of oil during the skillet frying process.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses 8 sprigs of chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh herbal flavor.
Do the cod cakes contain eggs?
Yes, the recipe requires 2 beaten eggs to help bind the ingredients together.
Is there butter in the mixture?
Yes, 3 tablespoons of melted butter are added to the mashed potato base for flavor and texture.
What heat setting should I use for frying?
Heat the skillet over medium heat to ensure the patties cook through without burning the bread crumbs.
How should I prep the onion?
Use one small onion that has been finely chopped before adding it to the mix.
Should I add milk or butter when mashing the potatoes?
No, the instructions suggest mashing them without adding anything to maintain the proper texture.
How do I prevent the cod from becoming mushy?
Gently fold the flaked cod into the mixture at the end rather than over-mixing it.
What is the best way to handle the cooked patties?
Once fried, place the patties on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil before serving.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients, including the seasonings like salt and pepper.
Are these cod cakes suitable as a snack?
Yes, they are described as being perfect for either a lunch meal or a savory snack.
What is the consistency of the potato mixture?
By using plain mashed potatoes and binding agents like eggs and butter, the mixture becomes creamy yet firm enough to shape.
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, as long as the cod is thawed and then steamed until flaky according to the recipe instructions.
How do I know when the patties are ready to flip?
Flip them after about 4-5 minutes once the bottom side is golden brown and crispy.
What kind of bread crumbs should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for seasoned bread crumbs to enhance the overall flavor.
Is salt and pepper included?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to taste during the mixing process.
How many cups of potatoes are needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of boiled and mashed potatoes.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.
What type of fish besides cod can be used?
While authentic to cod, other white flaky fish could be substituted if cod is unavailable.
How much cod is required?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of steamed cod.