Tasca do Chico-Style Bolinhos de Bacalhau

This version captures traditional Portuguese flavors using minimally processed oils and wholesome, organic ingredients.

↓ Jump to Recipe 0 cooked this Pin

Ingredients

  • 1 lb wild-caught salt cod, soaked 24–48 hours in the refrigerator with several water changes, then drained
  • 1.5 lbs organic Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 2 pastured eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves organic garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 cup avocado oil for sautéing
  • 2 tbsp organic olive oil for brushing
  • 2 tbsp organic almond flour (optional binder)

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links are affiliate links — if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • Half-sheet pan — Bake, broil, or roast appetizers on a flat, rimmed surface.
  • Small ramekins — Individual portions for dips, baked eggs, and small bites.
  • Pastry brush — Brush egg wash or oil on dough without tearing it.

Instructions

  1. Boil the potatoes in unsalted water until tender (the cod carries plenty of salt), then drain and mash until completely smooth.
  2. Simmer the soaked salt cod in fresh water for about 10 minutes, drain, and let cool slightly. Flake into small, uniform pieces, removing any skin and bones, then pat dry with a towel.
  3. Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked cod, sautéed garlic, parsley, black pepper, and beaten eggs.
  5. Fold in the almond flour if needed to help the mixture hold its shape, then mix thoroughly.
  6. Form the mixture into small balls (about the size of golf balls) and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Brush the tops with organic olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden brown.

FAQ

Can I substitute the avocado oil with another oil?

Certainly, you can use other oils like ghee or coconut oil, ensuring they are free from artificial preservatives and additives.

What if I don't have organic garlic?

While organic is preferred to avoid synthetic pesticides, non-organic garlic will work. Just be sure to wash it thoroughly.

Also try

Cooked it?

Tap to add it to the count of cooks who made this.