Salt Cod Fritters

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Rinse the salt cod thoroughly and place it in a bowl of water. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 3 hours. Drain the water, cover the fish with fresh water, and soak for another 3 hours.

   Step 2

   After the second soak, drain the water and put the salt cod in a medium pot. Cover with water, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes.

   Step 3

   Transfer the fish to a bowl to cool. Break the fish into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones, and set aside.

   Step 4

   To make the batter, in a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in ¾ cup water. Gently combine the egg mixture with the flour.

   Step 5

   Fold the cod, scallions, and jalapeño into the batter; the mixture should be thick and lumpy.

   Step 6

   To set up a fryer, pour about 3 inches of canola oil into a deep straight-sided pot or Dutch oven, filling it less than halfway. Clip a deep-fry / candy thermometer to the side of the pot and preheat the oil to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with paper towels.

   Step 7

   Working quickly, use a large spoon to scoop 1-tablespoon portions of the cod mixture and gently place in the hot oil, starting with a total of 8 fritters. The batter will sink at first and then float to the surface. Fry until golden brown, turning the fritters once, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon or a sieve and transfer to the paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve immediately.