Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! These cod fish balls, a delightful Italian-inspired dish, are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes; this one is straightforward, delivering incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, resulting in a truly delicious dish the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the best recipes, featuring fresh cod and simple ingredients.
Ingredients: You'll only need a few simple items!
- 1 lb cod fillets, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fish Ball Perfection
This recipe is designed for easy, quick dinner ideas and is perfect for those new to homemade cooking.
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely when frying.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together.
Step 3: Add the Cod
Add the cod pieces to the bowl and gently toss until they are evenly coated in the mixture. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough fish balls.
Step 4: Shape the Fish Balls
Using your hands, form the cod mixture into small balls, about 1-1/2 inches in diameter.
Step 5: Fry the Fish Balls
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a small piece of dough should sizzle immediately), carefully add the cod fish balls to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the fish balls from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while they're hot and crispy. These are fantastic as a simple appetizer or main course.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Fish Balls
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the fish balls in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy fish balls. Fry in batches if necessary.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
- Lemon & Herb: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the mixture, along with some fresh thyme or oregano.
- Spicy: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Cheesy: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
These cod fish balls are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They are quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and offer a nutritious alternative to heavier fried foods. Enjoy this taste of Italy!