Chef Chuck's Fried Cod Fish Balls

Polpette di Pesce e Patate


Fried cod fish balls are a different kind of appetizer. Bite into these fish balls to find a mixture of cod, potatoes, garlic and parsley. Fried in olive oil gives these fish balls a delightful golden brown outer shell. If you can't find cod any meaty white fish would work. Serve with lemon wedges or even a marinara sauce.

Fried Cod Fish Balls


1 pound cod fish
3 potatoes
2 tablespoons flour
1 egg
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 lemon
olive oil for frying


Peel and cut potatoes into large chunks, boil in salted water till fork tender, mash with a fork. Steam cod for 5 minutes, flake with a fork. Saute garlic with a little bit of olive oil for a minute. In a bowl combine potatoes, fish, garlic, flour, egg, parsley, salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Form small balls, and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat olive oil in a small frying pan, brown 3 or 4 at a time, drain on paper towels and salt them. Drizzle with olive oil and serve with lemon wedges. Makes about 18.