Crispy Homemade Fish Cakes Recipe

Fish cakes are a versatile, comforting dish that combines the delicate flavors of white fish with creamy potatoes and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these crispy delights are easy to prepare and packed with protein and nutrients. This recipe ensures a crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Ready in under an hour, these fish cakes pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this delectable dish.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe:

• 500 grams of white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or similar), cooked and flaked
• 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
• Oil for frying

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

Begin by cooking the white fish fillets. You can steam, poach, or bake them until tender and fully cooked. Once cooled, flake the fish into small pieces using a fork and set aside.

Simultaneously, peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain the water and mash the potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Add the beaten egg, fresh parsley, and paprika. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Using a spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. The mixture should be slightly firm and easy to shape. If it feels too soft, you can add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to bind it.

3. Shape the Fish Cakes

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into small patties, about 2.5 cm thick. For consistent sizes, you can use an ice cream scoop or a measuring cup.

Place the shaped patties on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for 10–15 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape while frying.

4. Coat the Fish Cakes

Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Gently press each patty into the breadcrumbs, ensuring that all sides are evenly coated. For an extra crispy crust, you can dip the patties in beaten egg before coating them with breadcrumbs.

5. Fry the Fish Cakes

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fish cakes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Once done, transfer the fish cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy fish cakes warm, accompanied by a fresh green salad, tartar sauce, or lemon wedges. For a more substantial meal, pair them with roasted vegetables or steamed rice.

Crispy fish cakes are a perfect example of a simple dish that can deliver big flavors. The combination of tender fish, creamy potatoes, and a crispy breadcrumb coating makes them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe will save the day with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Not only are they easy to make, but fish cakes are also an excellent way to use up leftover fish and potatoes, making them a budget-friendly option. Try this recipe and let your family and friends savor the magic of homemade fish cakes.