Crispy Golden Fish Cakes

Discover how to make crispy golden fish cakes, a delicious and healthy family dinner option packed with flavor and nutrients. Easy to prepare!

Crispy Golden Fish Cakes are a delightful treat for the taste buds and a straightforward dish to prepare, making them perfect for a family dinner. The recipe requires simple ingredients—like flaky fish, potatoes, and fresh herbs—that blend harmoniously together, resulting in a flavorful and crispy exterior and a tender, moist interior.

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Preparation time is minimal

Preparation time is minimal, with key steps like boiling potatoes and mixing the ingredients taking only about 30 minutes. Once formed, the cakes can be fried to golden perfection, creating a satisfying crunch that complements the succulent fish.

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An appealing option for families,

Their versatility makes them an appealing option for families, allowing for variations in seasoning and herbs to cater to varied tastes, ensuring that everyone at the dinner table is satisfied.

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Packed with fish protein, these cakes support muscle health and promote satiety

Beyond their tasty facade, crispy golden fish cakes offer a myriad of health benefits, making them an excellent choice for nutritious family meals. Packed with fish protein, these cakes support muscle health and promote satiety, helping to keep hunger at bay.

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Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley elevates the flavors and adds essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Additionally, including potatoes provides dietary fiber essential for digestive health. Utilizing whole wheat breadcrumbs adds another layer of nourishment, enhancing the fiber content further. Moreover, incorporating fresh herbs like parsley elevates the flavors and adds essential vitamins and antioxidants.

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A delightful and health-conscious choice for family dinners

Making these fish cakes as part of your weekly meal prep ensures your family enjoys a delicious, wholesome dish that aligns with healthy eating habits. Whether served with a side salad or a homemade dipping sauce, Crispy Golden Fish Cakes are a delightful and health-conscious choice for family dinners that everyone will love.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Serving Yield: Approximately 8-10 fish cakes (serves 4 people)

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Ingredients

For the Fish Cakes:

1. Fish (e.g., cod, salmon, or any white fish) - 1 pound (16 oz), cooked and flaked
2. Potatoes - 2 medium-sized (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
3. Onion - 1 medium (about ½ cup), finely chopped
4. Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
5. Parsley (fresh) - ¼ cup, chopped
6. Eggs - 1 large, beaten
7. Whole wheat breadcrumbs - 1 cup
8. Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
9. Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon
10. Salt - ½ teaspoon, adjust to taste
11. Black pepper - ¼ teaspoon, adjust to taste
12. Olive oil or coconut oil - for frying (about 2-3 tablespoons)

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Optional Ingredients (for added flavor):

• Paprika - ½ teaspoon
• Green onions - ¼ cup, chopped
• Capers - 1 tablespoon, drained and chopped

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Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure you have all the ingredients measured and ready to use:

• 1 pound of cooked and flaked fish (cod, salmon, or any white fish)
• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 medium onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• ¼ cup fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil or coconut oil (for frying)

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Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Cut: Peel the two medium potatoes and cut them into small cubes (about 1 inch).
2. Boil: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
3. Drain and Mash: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Mash them until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

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Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

1. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté: In a skillet, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

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Step 4: Prepare the Fish Cake Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the following:
   • Flaked fish
   • Mashed potatoes
   • Sautéed onion and garlic
   • Chopped parsley
   • Beaten egg
   • Whole wheat breadcrumbs
   • Lemon juice
   • Dijon mustard
   • Salt
   • Black pepper
2. Mix: Stir the mixture until everything is well incorporated. Use a fork or your hands to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Shape the Fish Cakes

1. Form Patties: Take a handful of the mixture (about ¼ cup per patty) and shape it into a round disc or patty about ½ inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should have about 8-10 patties.
2. Chill (optional): If time allows, place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to help them set and make frying easier.

Step 6: Cook the Fish Cakes

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Fry Patties: Once the oil is hot, gently place the fish cakes in the skillet (don’t overcrowd; you may need to do this in batches). Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown.
3. Flip: Carefully flip the patties using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until golden and crispy.
4. Drain: Once cooked, transfer the fish cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish: You can garnish the fish cakes with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon.
2. Accompaniments: Serve the fish cakes hot with a side of salad, dipping sauce (like tartar sauce or yogurt sauce), or steamed vegetables.

Here’s a list of helpful tips and variations for making Crispy Golden Fish Cakes to enhance your cooking experience and customize the dish:

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Helpful Tips

1. Choose Fresh Fish: Opt for fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor. If using frozen fish, ensure it's fully thawed and well-drained.
2. Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender but not mushy. Drain well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
3. Chill the Mixture: After mixing all the ingredients, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cakes hold their shape while cooking.
4. Use Parchment Paper: If you’re baking the fish cakes, line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cakes to prevent them from absorbing too much oil and becoming soggy. Use medium heat.
6. Test a Small Patty: Before frying all the cakes, fry a small test patty to check the seasoning and ensure it holds together. Adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Serve Fresh: Fish cakes taste best when served fresh and hot, but they can be kept warm in a low oven if you need to cook in batches.
8. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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Variations

1. Herb Variations: Swap out parsley for other fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil to change the flavor profile.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
3. Spice it Up: Add spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, or curry powder for an extra kick and unique flavor.
4. Different Binders: Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed cornflakes or panko for a different texture and crunch.
5. Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
6. Tartare Twist: Mix in finely chopped capers or olives for a briny flavor that complements the fish well.
7. Baked Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the fish cakes instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. Sauce Pairings: Serve with different sauces like spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or a lemon-dill yogurt sauce for varied flavors.

By implementing these tips and variations, you can create delicious Crispy Golden Fish Cakes tailored to your family’s preferences, making mealtime even more enjoyable!

Brunch Hosting Hacks for Fish Cakes

Serve mini fish cakes on a platter with small bowls of tartar sauce, remoulade, and lemon wedges. Pair with mimosas or a crisp white wine for a brunch board that rivals any restaurant.

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Nutritional Information

Each fish cake (based on cod + potato) is approximately:

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 16g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 6g (mostly healthy fats)

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store cooked fish cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked patties between parchment sheets for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to keep them crisp.

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What to Serve with Fish Cakes

Pair with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries
• Garlic aioli, tartar sauce, or sriracha mayo

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❓ FAQs About Crispy Fish Cakes

Can I use canned fish?
Yes! Canned salmon or tuna works — just drain well before mixing.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I keep them from falling apart?
Use enough binder (egg + starch), chill before frying, and flip gently.

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🚨 Food Safety Notes for Handling Fish

• Always cook fish to 145°F internal temperature.
• Store raw fish in the coldest part of your fridge and cook within 1–2 days.
• Clean cutting boards and utensils thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination.

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