Croquettes - stick-shaped pieces made from cod fillet - vegetarian (without egg)

Cod Croquettes - Crispy Vegan Sticks

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe that brings a touch of freshness and flavor to your table, these cod croquettes are exactly what you need. Easy to prepare, egg-free, and full of flavor, they are perfect for a light lunch or a savory dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

A Brief History of Croquettes

Croquettes have a long history, being a popular dish in many cultures. They are usually an ingenious way to use leftover meat or fish, transforming them into delicious snacks. Today, croquettes are frequently consumed as appetizers or snacks, attracting attention not only for their crispy texture but also for their versatility.

Ingredients

- 600 g cod fillet (or any type of white fish, such as sole, tilapia, or whiting)
- 100 g fine golden breadcrumbs
- 100 g coarse golden breadcrumbs
- 70 - 100 g flour
- 100 g cornflakes, lightly crushed in a blender
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- Sweet paprika (for taste and color)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the fish: Start by washing the cod fillets under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any leftover bones or skin. Then, dry them with paper towels to remove excess water, which will help achieve a crispy texture.

2. Cutting the fish: Cut the fillets into evenly sized strips. Choose a thickness that allows for even frying, usually 2-3 cm wide is ideal.

3. Preparing the crispy mixture: In a large bowl, combine the fine breadcrumbs, coarse breadcrumbs, and crushed cornflakes. Add the garlic granules, onion granules, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well to distribute them evenly.

4. Dipping the fish strips in the crispy mixture: Take each fish strip and dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip it in the crispy mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the fish. This step is essential for achieving a crispy and delicious crust.

5. Frying the croquettes: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the croquettes; a simple method is to put a small piece of batter in the oil - if it sizzles, it's ready. Fry the croquettes on both sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

6. Draining the oil: Once the croquettes are nicely browned, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serving suggestions

These cod croquettes are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt and dill sauce. If you want to add a touch of originality, you can accompany the croquettes with a spicy tomato sauce or a creamy avocado sauce.

Practical tips

- Freezing the croquettes: If you're preparing a larger quantity, the croquettes freeze very well. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to cook them, there's no need to defrost; you can fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different spices in the crispy mixture, such as cumin or smoked paprika, to give a distinct flavor. Additionally, cornflakes can be replaced with other crushed cereals, such as whole grain cereals.

Nutritional benefits

Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. These croquettes are a healthy option, especially if you fry them in extra virgin olive oil. The cornflakes add fiber and a crispy texture, while the seasoning with garlic and onion granules contributes to antioxidant benefits.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can use any type of white fish, such as salmon, carp, or tilapia. Always check the freshness of the chosen fish.

How can I make the croquettes healthier?
For a healthier version, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying them. Place them on a baking tray, brushed with a little oil, and bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through.

What other recipes can they be combined with?
These croquettes are excellent alongside a fresh vegetable salad, French fries, or mashed potatoes. They can also be served as an appetizer in a Mediterranean-themed meal.

Happy cooking! May these cod croquettes become a favorite in your kitchen, bringing joy to every meal!

 Ingredients: 600 g cod fillet (you can use any type of white fish) 100 g fine golden breadcrumbs (Carrefour) 100 g coarse golden breadcrumbs (Carrefour) 70 - 100 g flour 100 g cornflakes, slightly crushed in a blender 1 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 teaspoon granulated onion sweet paprika for taste and color to preference oil for frying and pepper to taste