Portuguese Cod Fish Cakes

Photo: Euclydes Antonio dos Santos Filho

Ingredients

1 pound salted cod

1 pound potatoes

1 med. to lg. onion

1/2 cup chopped parsley, flat preferred

1-2 eggs

Preparation

Soak cod fish in cold water in a glass container for 12 hours or overnight, changing water 3 or 4 times. Put cod fish in large pot with enough water to cover. Bring to boil and test water. If too salty, change water and boil again. Cook for about 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily. When cool pick out any bones or skin and shred using fingers.

Cook washed potatoes, peel and rice or mash coarsely. Combine cod fish, potatoes, finely chopped onions and parsley. Add egg and mix (hands work best). Add second egg if necessary, if too dry.

Heat about 1/2 inch of oil, peanut works well, in heavy skillet. Shape cod fish mixture into small cakes. A large tbsp. makes a perfect size cake. Cook cakes in oil until golden brown, turning once. Do not crowd. Oil will bubble during the cooking process. Drain on paper towels. Serve them at room temperature or cold. May be refrigerated for days.