Golden, crispy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside Caribbean codfish fritters made with salted cod, herbs, and spices. These delightful bites are a classic appetizer in French Caribbean cuisine, typically served hot with a creamy dipping sauce. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a savory snack, Accras de Morue are irresistibly flavorful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Caribbean flavor: A traditional island recipe full of heritage and spice.
- Crispy and tender: Delightful contrast in textures—crunchy outside and fluffy inside.
- Great appetizer or snack: Ideal for sharing at gatherings, parties, or casual dinners.
- Customizable heat: Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Make-ahead friendly: Batter can be prepared in advance and refrigerated.
- Paired with a tangy sauce: Complements the savory fritters beautifully.
- Crowd-pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Easy to prepare: Simple steps with delicious results.
- High-protein: Salted cod provides a satisfying protein source.
- Perfect for frying enthusiasts: A great introduction to Caribbean fried dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- salted codfish
- all-purpose flour
- baking powder
- ground black pepper
- garlic cloves, minced
- small onion, finely chopped
- scallions, finely sliced
- fresh parsley, chopped
- hot pepper (optional)
- egg
- water (adjust for batter consistency)
- vegetable oil, for frying
For the dipping sauce:
- plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- lime juice
- chopped fresh cilantro
- paprika
- salt to taste
Directions
- Soak the salted cod in water overnight, changing the water 2–3 times to remove excess salt.
- Drain the cod, then boil for 10 minutes. Shred the fish finely and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, pepper, garlic, onion, scallions, parsley, and optional hot pepper.
- Add the shredded codfish to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Beat the egg with water, then stir into the mixture to form a thick batter. Adjust the water if necessary.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- For the dipping sauce, combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Chill until serving time.
- Serve the fritters hot with the prepared dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6 (as an appetizer)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding soaking)
Variations
- Herb variation: Try adding thyme or cilantro for a different herb profile.
- Cheesy twist: Mix in a small amount of grated cheese to the batter.
- Different fish: If salted cod is unavailable, use cooked white fish and season accordingly.
- Spicier version: Use Scotch bonnet or habanero for intense heat.
- Gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Mini fritters: Make smaller portions for bite-sized party appetizers.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooled fritters in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Add extra salt to compensate for the lack of curing.
How do I know when the fritters are cooked through?
They should be golden brown on the outside and not doughy inside. Cut one open to check doneness.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.
Can I make the batter in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours before frying.
Are these fritters spicy?
They can be. Adjust the amount or type of pepper to suit your taste.
Can I bake instead of fry them?
While possible, baking will result in a less crispy texture. Frying is recommended for authenticity.
What can I serve with these fritters?
They pair well with fresh salads, pickled vegetables, or as part of a Caribbean platter.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based yogurt for the sauce and ensure no dairy is added elsewhere.
How do I prevent the fritters from becoming greasy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps form a quick crust and reduces oil absorption.
What makes this a traditional Caribbean recipe?
Accras de Morue is a beloved dish across the French Caribbean islands, especially in Martinique and Guadeloupe, with African and French culinary influences.
Conclusion
Crispy Codfish Fritters (Accras de Morue) offer a taste of Caribbean tradition with every bite. Their golden crust, fluffy interior, and savory flavor make them a delightful addition to any appetizer spread. Whether served with a tangy sauce or enjoyed on their own, these fritters bring both comfort and character to the table. Try them for your next gathering and experience an island classic that never disappoints.
Print
Crispy Codfish Fritters (Accras de Morue)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Halal
Description
Golden, crispy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside Caribbean codfish fritters made with salted cod, herbs, and spices. Served with a creamy dipping sauce, these make an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb salted codfish
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 scallions, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper (optional)
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup water (adjust for batter consistency)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Pinch of paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Soak salted cod in water overnight, changing the water 2–3 times to remove excess salt. Drain, boil for 10 minutes, then shred the fish finely and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, pepper, garlic, onion, scallions, parsley, and hot pepper.
- Add the shredded codfish and mix well. Beat the egg with the water and stir into the mixture to form a thick batter.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- For the sauce, mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
- Serve fritters hot with the dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure cod is fully desalted to avoid overly salty fritters.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or mayonnaise for the dipping sauce.
- Fritters are best served immediately but can be kept warm in the oven if needed.
- Serve with a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 fritters)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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