Crispy New England Cod Cakes
These Crispy New England Cod Cakes are a delightful twist on a classic seafood dish, perfect for a quick meal or as an appetizer. Made with either salt cod or fresh cod, combined with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh herbs, and a mere touch of mustard for depth, these cakes deliver a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Once formed, they are sautéed to golden perfection, making them irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flaky inside. Serve with zesty lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce for a truly delicious experience. Gather your friends and family to share in the feast of this beloved regional dish that brings the taste of the Northeast right to your table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salt cod or fresh cod, cooked and flaked
1 lb (Soaked and flaked if using salt cod)
Yukon Gold potatoes or russet potatoes
1 1/2 lbs (Peeled and cut into chunks)
Chopped onions or scallions
1/3-1/2 cup (Lightly sautéed until soft)
Dry mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons (None)
Eggs, beaten
3 (None)
Soft butter
3 tablespoons plus extra for frying (Melted and cooled)
Fresh ground black pepper
to taste (None)
Cayenne pepper (optional)
1 pinch (None)
Chopped herbs (parsley or dill) (optional)
to taste (None)
Instructions
1
If using salt cod, soak the fish in a large bowl of water in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours, changing the water several times. After soaking, place the fillet in a 3-4 quart saucepan, submerge in fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and leave in the water for an additional 10-15 minutes. Rinse under cold water and flake the fish into bite-sized pieces.
2
Peel the Yukon Gold or russet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes, return them to the pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to evaporate any excess moisture, then mash them until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
3
In a small skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions or scallions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4
In a large bowl, combine the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, melted butter, sautéed onions, beaten eggs, dry mustard, fresh ground black pepper, and herbs (if using). Mix thoroughly until well combined, but take care not to overmix as you want to maintain some texture.
5
Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches wide, and place them on a lined baking sheet. If not cooking immediately, cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
6
To cook the cakes, heat enough butter to generously coat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the cod cakes in the pan, cooking until golden brown on one side, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and continue cooking until the other side is also golden and the cakes are heated through, another 4-5 minutes.
7
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a mix of mayonnaise with lemon juice and capers. Enjoy the light and crispy cod cakes as a starter or pair them with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy New England Cod Cakes?
These cod cakes are a traditional regional seafood dish made with cod and Yukon Gold potatoes, known for being crispy on the outside and flaky inside.
What type of fish should I use for this recipe?
You can use either salt cod or fresh cod for these New England cakes.
How do I prepare salt cod for cooking?
Soak the salt cod in water for 12 to 24 hours in the refrigerator, changing the water several times, then boil for 10 minutes and let sit for 15 minutes.
What are the best potatoes to use for cod cakes?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture.
How many potatoes are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 lbs of potatoes.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Boil the potato chunks in salted water for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
What is the secret to a good cod cake texture?
After draining the potatoes, return them to the heat for 2-3 minutes to evaporate excess moisture before mashing.
How should the onions be prepared?
Chop the onions or scallions and sauté them in butter until they are soft and translucent.
What seasonings are included in the mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with dry mustard, fresh ground black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
Are eggs used in this recipe?
Yes, three beaten eggs are used as a binding agent to hold the cakes together.
What role does butter play in the recipe?
Butter is used both inside the cake mixture for flavor and in the pan for frying to achieve a golden crust.
How much dry mustard is required?
You will need 1 1/2 teaspoons of dry mustard.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, optional fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill can be added to the mixture.
How should I mix the ingredients?
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix thoroughly, but be careful not to overmix to preserve the texture.
What size should the cod cake patties be?
Shape the mixture into patties that are about 2 to 3 inches wide.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 6 hours before cooking.
What is the best way to cook the cakes?
Sauté them in a non-stick frying pan with butter over medium heat.
How long do the cakes take to fry?
Cook the cakes for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and heated through.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 main ingredients, including optional items like cayenne and herbs.
What should I serve with cod cakes?
Serve them with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a mixture of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and capers.
Can these be served as an appetizer?
Yes, they are described as a perfect seafood appetizer or a quick meal.
What makes the exterior of the cakes crispy?
Sautéing the patties in butter over medium heat creates an irresistibly crispy golden crust.
Are these cod cakes healthy?
The recipe is tagged as healthy and uses fresh ingredients like fish, potatoes, and herbs.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.
What is the origin of this dish?
This is a beloved regional dish from the Northeast, specifically New England.
How much fish is needed for the recipe?
You will need 1 lb of cooked and flaked cod.
What if I don't have Yukon Gold potatoes?
Russet potatoes are a perfectly acceptable substitute for Yukon Golds.
Can I add spice to the cod cakes?
Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper is an optional way to add some heat.
What should I do after flaking the salt cod?
After flaking the fish into bite-sized pieces, ensure it is rinsed under cold water before mixing.
What is a good side dish for a full meal?
A fresh salad and crusty bread are recommended pairings for a satisfying lunch or dinner.