Bacalaitos (Codfish Fritters) with Salad

Ingredients

• For the Bacalaitos:
• 8 oz salted codfish (bacalao), soaked overnight, shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.75 cup water
• 0.5 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• Optional: pinch of adobo seasoning
• Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Salad:
• 2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 0.5 cucumber, sliced
• 0.25 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1Prep the Codfish:
2. 2Soak the salted codfish in water overnight, changing the water at least twice. Drain, shred, and set aside.
3. 3Make the Batter:
4. 4In a bowl, mix flour and water until smooth. Add shredded codfish, onion, cilantro, garlic, pepper, and optional adobo. Stir until well combined.
5. 5Fry the Bacalaitos:
6. 6Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, flatten slightly. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Place on a paper towel to drain.
7. 7Prepare the Salad:
8. 8Combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
9. 9Plate and Serve:
10. 10Serve 3–4 bacalaitos per person with a fresh side of salad.