Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

Crispy, golden brown Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli make an irresistible appetizer or light meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these fritters offer an exciting burst of flavor that elevates any occasion. The zesty lemon garlic aioli adds a refreshing twist, perfectly complementing the savory fritters. It’s time to indulge in this delicious dish that brings together ease and sophistication.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for home cooks at any skill level.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a delightful taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: These fritters can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a light meal.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the batter in advance and fry the fritters just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Zesty Dipping Sauce: The homemade lemon garlic aioli takes this dish to another level with its bright, tangy flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect salt cod fritters, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen arsenal. These tools not only streamline the cooking process but ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Wire rack
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills.
• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even heating for perfectly fried fritters.
• Wire rack: Helps drain excess oil from cooked fritters, keeping them crispy.

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• 1 lb salt cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours (changing water several times)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Lemon Garlic Aioli:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

Step 1: Prepare the Salt Cod

Once the salt cod has been soaked, drain it well and flake it into small pieces. Gently remove any remaining bones to ensure a smooth texture.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and dill to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Gradually add these wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while whisking until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters light.

Step 4: Add Salt Cod

Gently fold in the flaked salt cod into your batter mixture. Ensure even distribution without breaking up the fish too much.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot enough, drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 6: Cook Fritters

Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Aioli

While you fry your fritters, prepare the aioli by combining mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm salt cod fritters immediately alongside your zesty lemon garlic aioli for dipping. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!

How to Serve Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

Serving salt cod fritters with lemon garlic aioli can elevate your dining experience. These crispy treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavor and presentation.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the fritters on a beautiful platter with a side of lemon garlic aioli for dipping. This makes for an impressive starter at gatherings.

Accompanied by Fresh Salads

• Pair the fritters with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the savory fritters.

In Tacos

• Use the fritters as a filling for soft corn tortillas, topped with avocado slices and fresh salsa for a delightful twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Serve alongside grilled seasonal vegetables for a colorful and healthy plate. The smoky flavors balance perfectly with the fritters.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top the fritters with extra chopped dill or parsley before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to your dish.

How to Perfect Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

To achieve the best salt cod fritters, consider these essential tips that will ensure they are crispy and flavorful.

• Soak Thoroughly: Properly soaking the salt cod for at least 12 hours helps remove excess salt, making the fish tender and ready to absorb flavors.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense fritters rather than light and airy ones.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F (175°C). This helps create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh parsley and dill into the batter enhances flavor significantly. Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place fritters on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents them from getting soggy while allowing excess oil to drain off effectively.

Best Side Dishes for Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

Complementing your salt cod fritters with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with greens like arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, dressed lightly in olive oil and vinegar.

2. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the fritters beautifully.

3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that pairs well with the richness of fried food.

4. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to salty cod while being crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

5. Roasted Potatoes: Herb-roasted potatoes bring heartiness to your meal, making it more satisfying without overpowering flavors.

6. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to fried items.

7. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered tempura vegetables add crunch and variety, enhancing your dining experience alongside fritters.

8. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and lemon zest for a refreshing side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Not Soaking the Salt Cod Properly: Ensure you soak the salt cod for at least 12 hours. Change the water several times to remove excess salt, resulting in a balanced flavor.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense fritters instead of light and airy ones.

• Frying at Incorrect Temperature: Use medium-high heat for frying. If the oil is not hot enough, fritters will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy.

• Crowding the Pan: Fry fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain proper temperature in the oil.

• Skipping the Aioli: The lemon garlic aioli complements the fritters perfectly. Don’t skip this step; it enhances flavor and adds a delicious creamy element.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store fritters in an airtight container.
• They can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Freeze fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salt Cod Fritters With Lemon Garlic Aioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake fritters for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. This method may make them less crispy.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli that many home cooks have.

What is salt cod?

Salt cod is dried and salted codfish. It must be soaked before cooking to rehydrate and reduce saltiness.

How do I know when my fritters are done?

Fritters should be golden brown on both sides and cooked through. A good indicator is when they float in the oil while frying.

Can I use other fish instead of salt cod?

Yes! You can substitute other types of firm white fish like haddock or pollock, but ensure they are properly salted and dried if needed.

What else can I serve with these fritters?

You can serve them with a fresh salad or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.

How long does homemade aioli last?

Homemade aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Garlic Aioli are not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or light meal. Feel free to customize them by adding spices or herbs that you love. Enjoy making this delightful dish!