Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bermudian Cod & Potato Cakes?
They are a traditional Bermudian dish featuring a crispy exterior and a soft interior made from a blend of tender cod and creamy mashed potatoes.
What is the primary fish used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of cod, which should be cooked and flaked.
How long should I cook the cod?
The cod should be cooked in a boiling pot of water for approximately 10 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
How many cups of mashed potatoes are required?
You will need 3 cups of prepared mashed potatoes, preferably homemade.
What role does the egg play in the recipe?
The egg acts as a binder to ensure the potato and fish mixture stays together when shaped into patties.
What herbs provide the flavor profile for these cakes?
The recipe uses a combination of dried thyme leaves and fresh chopped parsley.
How should the onion be prepared?
One small onion should be finely chopped or grated before being added to the mixture.
What seasonings are added to the fish cakes?
The mixture is seasoned with seasoning salt, ground pepper, thyme, and parsley.
What is the recommended size for each fish cake?
The mixture should be shaped into small patties approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
How do I prevent the patties from sticking to the plate?
Dust a large plate with flour before arranging the shaped patties on it.
Should the patties be coated in flour?
Yes, you should lightly dust the tops of the patties with flour after shaping them.
How much oil is needed for frying?
Use enough cooking oil to cover the bottom of your large skillet.
What heat setting should I use for frying?
Heat the oil in the skillet over medium heat before adding the cakes.
How long do the fish cakes need to fry on each side?
Fry the fish cakes for about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
How do I know when the fish cakes are done?
They are ready when both sides are golden brown and the exterior is crispy.
What is the best way to flip the cakes?
Use a spatula to turn them gently to avoid breaking the soft interior.
How should I remove excess oil after frying?
Transfer the cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the oil.
Are these fish cakes served warm or cold?
These Bermudian Cod & Potato Cakes are best served warm.
Can these be served as a main dish?
While often served as a savory side dish, they can also be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal.
What type of cuisine does this recipe represent?
This recipe is a staple of Bermudian and Caribbean cuisine.
Can I use a fork to flake the cod?
Yes, a fork is the recommended tool to flake the cod once it has cooled.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients including the fish, potatoes, egg, flour, oil, and seasonings.
Should the mashed potatoes be hot or cold when mixing?
The recipe specifies prepared mashed potatoes; they can be freshly made or pre-prepared.
Is the onion cooked before being added to the mix?
No, the onion is added finely chopped or grated directly into the raw mixture before frying.
How much seasoning salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt.
How much thyme is required?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves.
Can I substitute the cod with another fish?
While cod is traditional for this Bermudian recipe, other white flaky fish could be used as a substitute.
What is the texture of the finished cake?
It has a crispy outer crust with a soft, creamy potato and fish center.
Do I need to deep fry these cakes?
No, shallow frying in a skillet with enough oil to cover the bottom is sufficient.
Is it okay to overcrowd the skillet?
No, ensure not to overcrowd the skillet so the cakes can fry evenly and remain crispy.