Season 11 - Lunch / S11L02
Bacalaítos (Codfish Fritters)
Story
When Don Luis was a niño growing up near the coast, the sound of waves crashing was often followed by the *sizzle* of something delicious frying in Abuela’s cast iron pan. On Saturdays, the salty breeze carried a scent that could stop any kid mid-game: Bacalaitos! 😋 Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, these fritters were more than food — they were tradition. Now, in his rustic-modern kitchen, Don Luis flips these codfish delights with flair while teaching the younger generation why we *never* skip on seasoning — and always make a few extras, because they *vanish* fast! 🌀🍽️ Prep, Cook, & Nutrition
Ingredients
- 0.5 lb salted codfish (🧂🐟 bacalao), soaked and shredded
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 🍚
- 0.75 cup water 💧
- 1 tsp baking powder 🎈
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 0.5 tsp onion powder 🧅
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro 🌿
- 0.25 cup chopped green pepper 🫑
- 0.25 cup chopped red pepper ❤️🫑
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂⚫
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola) 🛢️
Instructions
- 1Prep the Codfish: Soak the salted cod overnight or for at least 6 hours, changing the water 2–3 times. Drain and shred into small pieces.
- 2Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and water until smooth. No lumps!
- 3Add Flavor: Fold in shredded codfish, cilantro, green and red peppers. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- 4Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. It should sizzle when batter touches it.
- 5Fry the Bacalaítos: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with a spoon for even crisping. Fry 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 6Drain and Serve: Transfer to paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot and crispy! 🔥🧡
About the narrator
Don Luis · A character for three generations
Don Luis is the brand character and narrator for this catalog: a warm voice for Puerto Rican family recipes tested by the real creator behind the brand. The project carries three generations of flavor and writes each recipe step by step so any kid can follow it.
Read our mission →