The origins of saltfish accras
Accras originate from the Caribbean, more specifically from Guadeloupe. This delicious dish was created when fishermen had to find ways to preserve their catch as they couldn’t eat it fresh. As a result, they would fry the fish and serve it with rice or vegetables.
Accras, in their most basic version, are mashed fish mixed with a batter made from wheat flour and aromatics. The dish is also known as “cod fritters” in some parts of the world.
For example, in Portugal, Spain or even Ghana. Nowadays, this dish can be found all over the world, where it is served either as an appetizer or as a starter in restaurants, and that’s probably why you’re looking for a recipe (Yeah, I’m a bit of a mind reader in my spare time) source
Tips for successful fritters
Mix the batter well to avoid lumps
Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and reducing the oil temperature
Prepare the batter in advance and let it rest in the refrigerator, ideally overnight, to allow the spices to infuse well. You can prepare it up to 48 hours in advance
Don’t neglect mincing the ingredients: the smaller they are, the better the flavor of the fritters will be
The batter should be sticky, slightly liquid but consistent to have a tender and bouncy final result; if the batter is too thick, your fritter will be too
Bird’s eye chili really brings that traditional Caribbean taste, you can buy it on Amazon here
How to serve saltfish accras ?
As part of a Caribbean-flavored meal, cod fritters are simply essential and promise to delight your guests.
Frying is not only quick, but it doesn’t generate much mess, making it an ideal option when you’re hosting guests. But don’t limit yourself to special occasions to enjoy these delights.
Cod fritters are versatile enough to fit into any type of meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive meal, no one will resist the temptation to savor these homemade fritters as a starter. Their crispy texture on the outside and soft on the inside makes them an appetizer or starter that will please all palates.
In any case, you absolutely must accompany them with my homemade chien sauce
A fried dish but full of benefits
Do saltfish accras make you gain weight? Looking strictly at calories, let’s not kid ourselves: yes. For 100g, you need to count about 259 kcal. That said, cod has a variety of very healthy benefits such as omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and vitamin B12. Fish proteins are also rather healthy, and the chilis and other aromatics provide fiber.
So, honestly, compared to other types of appetizers, it’s rather healthy, and if it remains occasional: treat yourself!
Caribbean Saltfish Accras
Ingredients
- 300 g of fresh cod fillet
- 0.5 medium onion
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 stems Parsley
- 1 pinch Pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 300 g wheat flour
- 1 egg
- 250 ml water
- 1 Antillean chili pepper or chili powder as a substitute
- 1 vegetarian chili (optional)
- 11 g baking powder
- 2 stems of green onions
Procédé
- mince all ingredients except the cod. First mix the herbs and salt, add the flour and yeast, gradually pour in the water while mixing, then incorporate the egg.
- Boil the cod for 5 minutes and mince it, then incorporate it into the batter.
- Using two tablespoons, form “balls” and fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown
