If you are looking for a crispy, golden, and flavorful seafood appetizer, this Codfish Croquettes Recipe is exactly what you need. Codfish Croquettes are crunchy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and packed with savory cod flavor. They are popular in Spanish, Portuguese, and Caribbean cuisines, and they are perfect for parties, family dinners, or even as a snack.

In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about Codfish Croquettes — what they are, how to make them step by step, how long to cook them, cooking tips, variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions. This is a complete, easy-to-follow recipe written for home cooks who want restaurant-quality results.

What Are Codfish Croquettes?

Codfish Croquettes are small, oval or round fried bites made with flaked codfish mixed with mashed potatoes or béchamel sauce, herbs, spices, and sometimes onions or garlic. The mixture is shaped, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown.

The word “croquette” comes from the French word croquer, meaning “to crunch.” And that is exactly what you get — a satisfying crunch outside and a creamy, flavorful center inside.

Different cultures have their own version:

1. Spanish Croquetas de Bacalao
2. Portuguese Pastéis de Bacalhau
3. Caribbean-style salted cod fritters
4. French-style cod croquettes with béchamel

This Recipe combines classic European technique with simple ingredients you can easily find at home.

Why You’ll Love This Codfish Croquettes Recipe

There are many reasons why this recipe stands out:

1. It uses simple, affordable ingredients.
2. It is easy enough for beginners.
3. It can be made ahead of time.
4. It is freezer-friendly.
5. It delivers crispy, golden perfection every time.

If you want a reliable and authentic Codfish Croquettes Recipe, this one will not disappoint.

Codfish Croquettes Recipe

Cuisine: Spanish / Portuguese InspiredDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

25

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

40

minutes

Ingredients for Codfish Croquettes

• For the Croquette Mixture:

• 1 pound fresh cod fillet (or salted cod, soaked and drained)

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Salt (adjust depending on cod type)

• 1 egg

• For Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1½ cups breadcrumbs

• Oil for deep frying

How to Make Codfish Croquettes Step by Step

• Cook the Cod
  Place the cod fillets in a pot of lightly salted water. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let cool. Flake the fish with a fork, removing any bones or skin.
  Note: If using salted cod, soak it in water for 24 hours, changing the water 2–3 times before cooking.
• Cook the Potatoes
  Boil diced potatoes in salted water until tender (about 12–15 minutes). Drain completely. Mash until smooth and lump-free. Let cool slightly.
  Note: The potatoes help bind the croquettes and create a creamy interior.
• Prepare the Flavor Base
  Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add paprika and black pepper.
  Note: This step builds flavor, which makes your Codfish Croquettes Recipe taste authentic and rich.
• Mix Everything Together
  In a large bowl, combine flaked cod, mashed potatoes, sautéed onion mixture, parsley, and one egg. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  Note: The mixture should be soft but firm enough to shape.
• Shape the Croquettes
  Take about 2 tablespoons of mixture. Shape into small cylinders or oval balls. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
  Note: Chilling helps prevent them from breaking during frying.
• Coat the Croquettes
  Follow this coating process: Roll each croquette in flour. Dip into beaten egg. Coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
  Note: This triple coating ensures crispy, golden Codfish Croquettes.
• Fry Until Golden
  Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
  Fry croquettes in small batches.
  Cook for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
  Remove and drain on paper towels.
  Note: Do not overcrowd the pan, or the oil temperature will drop.

Notes

• Tips for Perfect Codfish Croquettes
  – If you want your Codfish Croquettes to turn out perfect every time, follow these tips:
  – Always drain cod and potatoes thoroughly to avoid soggy mixture.
  – Chill the mixture before shaping.
  – Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F.
  – Do not skip the flour coating.
  – Use fresh breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  – Small details make a big difference in texture.
• How Long to Cook Codfish Croquettes?
  Cooking time depends on size, but generally:
  – Frying time: 3–4 minutes per batch
  – Internal temperature should be hot and fully heated
  – Total cooking time: about 15 minutes
  – If baking instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Croquette)

• Calories: 90–110
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g

This Codfish Croquettes Recipe provides protein from cod and balanced energy from potatoes and breadcrumbs.

Variations of Codfish Croquettes Recipe

You can customize this recipe easily.

1. Spicy Version: Add chopped chili or cayenne pepper.

2. Cheese-Filled Croquettes : Place a small cube of mozzarella inside before shaping.

3. Herb-Infused : Add thyme or cilantro for fresh flavor.

4. Air Fryer Version : Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is the Difference Between Codfish Croquettes and Fish Cakes?

Codfish Croquettes are usually smaller, creamier, and breadcrumb-coated before frying. Fish cakes are often larger and pan-fried without heavy coating. Croquettes focus more on creamy interior texture, while fish cakes are firmer and chunkier.

2. How Long Should I Chill Codfish Croquettes Before Frying?

Chill them for at least 20–30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during frying. If your kitchen is warm, you can chill for up to 1 hour for better results.

4. Can I Bake Codfish Croquettes Instead of Frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 18–20 minutes. Spray lightly with oil before baking. While they may not be as crispy as deep-fried croquettes, they still taste delicious and are lighter.

5. How Do I Keep Codfish Croquettes From Falling Apart?

Make sure the mixture is not too wet. Drain ingredients well and chill before coating. The flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating also help keep everything together during frying.

6. Can I Use Salted Cod for This Codfish Croquettes Recipe?

Yes, salted cod works beautifully. Just remember to soak it for 24 hours and change the water several times to remove excess salt before cooking.

7. How to Store and Reheat Codfish Croquettes

Proper storage keeps them fresh and crispy.

• Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it softens the crust.