Baked Fish and Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients: 100 g canned tuna, 100 g canned mackerel, 200 g ricotta, 60 g parmesan or Grana cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon chives, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon sesame, olive oil
To prepare these delicious fish patties, start by draining the canned tuna or mackerel well. Use a sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess oil or juice, then, using a fork, crumble the fish until you achieve a uniform mixture. If you prefer, you can choose to use only tuna or only mackerel, depending on your preferences.
In a large bowl, add the prepared fish and mix it with all the other ingredients. It is important to add salt and pepper to taste, to enhance the flavor of the dish. The mixture should be homogeneous and compact, so mix well to ensure that each ingredient is evenly distributed. If the ricotta you are using is wetter and releases water, do not hesitate to add a little breadcrumbs to the mixture to achieve the ideal texture.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to a temperature of 180-200 °C. This step is essential to prepare an optimal baking environment. While the oven is heating up, wet your hands and shape smaller, slightly flattened patties. This size will allow them to bake evenly and achieve a perfect crust.
After shaping the patties, roll them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and sesame seeds. This step will add a crunchy texture and delicious flavor. Place the patties in a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Brush or drizzle the patties with a little oil to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.
Bake the patties for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the patties to the other side to brown evenly. If you want to give them an extra crunch, leave them under the grill for a few minutes. In the end, the patties will have a golden, browned color, and their aroma will fill the entire kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. These fish patties are not only delicious but also healthy, making them an excellent choice for a light lunch or dinner, alongside a fresh salad or vegetable sides.
