Entree: Bermuda – Bermuda Fish Cakes (Pan-fried seasoned fish and potato patties typical of Bermuda)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 20 min

Total 40 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) boneless white fish fillets such as cod or pollock, cooked and flaked
- 1 lb (454 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup or 80 g)
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (about 12 g)
- 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) ground white pepper or black pepper
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour for dredging
- 1/2 cup (60 g) fine dry breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
- Lemon wedges and hot pepper sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1 — Cook and mash potatoes: place potatoes in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil and cook until tender, 12–15 minutes. Drain, mash with butter and milk until smooth; set aside to cool slightly.
2. Step 2 — Prepare fish: poach or steam the fish fillets until just cooked through, about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness. Flake the fish into bite-sized pieces and remove any bones.
3. Step 3 — Make the cake mixture: in a large bowl combine the mashed potatoes, flaked fish, chopped onion, scallions, parsley, egg, Dijon mustard, pepper, salt, and cayenne or hot sauce. Mix gently until evenly combined but not overworked. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Step 4 — Form and bread: shape the mixture into 8 equal patties (about 3 inches / 7–8 cm across). Lightly dredge each patty in flour, shaking off excess, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Step 5 — Fry until golden: heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6. Step 6 — Serve: serve the fish cakes hot with lemon wedges and Bermuda-style hot pepper sauce or your favorite condiment.