Proper British Fish Cakes are a delicious, comforting dish that brings a taste of the UK to your kitchen. Inspired by British cooking shows, this recipe blends flaky cod with creamy mashed potatoes, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Served with a tangy tartar sauce, these fish cakes are sure to impress anyone who loves classic British fare. Whether you’re craving a satisfying meal or looking to try something new, these fish cakes will not disappoint.
Quick Benefits
- Affordable: Made with simple ingredients like cod and potatoes, this dish is budget-friendly.
- High in Protein: With 29 grams of protein per serving, these fish cakes are a great option for a filling and nutritious meal.
- Versatile: They can be served as a main dish or as a snack, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender fish, creamy potatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs offers a delightful taste and texture in every bite.
Essential Ingredients
For the Tartar Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped Italian parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon
- 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
For the Fish Cakes:
- ½ cup milk
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound cod, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 ounces russet potato, peeled and quartered
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped Italian parsley
- 1 tablespoon sliced fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
For the Breading:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs, or as needed
- ¼ cup vegetable oil, or as needed
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Tartar Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, capers, shallot, parsley, tarragon, horseradish, mustard, and cayenne. Refrigerate until needed.
- Cook the Fish: In a saucepan, add milk and a bay leaf. Place the cod pieces in the milk, season with salt, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 1 minute until the fish firms up. Turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Drain and let the fish cool in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a pot of lightly salted water, boil the russet potato until tender but not falling apart. Drain and mash the potato in a bowl. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Add parsley, chives, and lemon zest. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the tartar sauce mixture.
- Combine Fish and Potatoes: Flake the chilled fish and add it to the potato mixture. Stir until fully combined.
- Form the Fish Cakes: Scoop out ¼ of the mixture and form it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Breading the Cakes: Dust the patties with flour on both sides. Brush with beaten egg and coat in panko bread crumbs.
- Fry the Fish Cakes: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in the hot oil until golden brown and heated through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fish cakes with the tartar sauce and enjoy!
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, making these fish cakes a great option for building muscle and keeping you full longer.
- Rich in Potassium: With potatoes as a key ingredient, these fish cakes offer a good amount of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Cod provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining cardiovascular health.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh parsley, tarragon, and chives not only add flavor but are also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support overall health.
Serving Suggestions
- With Watercress: Serve the fish cakes with a side of watercress for a fresh, peppery contrast.
- Lemon Wedges: Pair with lemon wedges to add a bright citrus kick that complements the rich flavor of the fish cakes.
- As a Main Course: Enjoy the fish cakes as a main dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad on the side.
- As a Snack: These fish cakes also work well as a snack or appetizer, especially when served with the tartar sauce for dipping.
Creative Variations
- Different Fish: Swap cod for haddock or another white fish, like tilapia or flounder, for a different flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of chopped chili or extra cayenne pepper for a spicier version of the dish.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless alternative, replace the fish with mashed chickpeas or lentils, seasoned with similar herbs and spices.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as dill, chervil, or tarragon for a unique flavor profile.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fish cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the fish cakes, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the fish and potatoes, be careful not to overmix, as it can cause the fish cakes to become dense. Gently fold the ingredients together.
- Chill the Fish Cakes: If the patties are too soft to handle, refrigerate them for 15 minutes before breading to help them hold their shape.
- Fry in Batches: Fry the fish cakes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking and follow the same steps.
Can I make these fish cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fish cakes in advance and refrigerate them for up to a day before frying.
What can I serve with these fish cakes?
These fish cakes go great with a side of sautéed greens, mashed peas, or a simple salad. You can also serve them with a fresh lemon wedge or additional tartar sauce.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing, but you can substitute them with Yukon gold potatoes or other starchy varieties for a similar texture.
Enjoy these traditional British fish cakes with tartar sauce for a true taste of British comfort food!
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