What To Know
- Yorkshire fish cakes are a beloved British dish that combines the simplicity of traditional fish cakes with a unique Yorkshire twist.
- The key lies in the inclusion of Yorkshire pudding batter, which adds a light and airy texture to the cakes.
- Carefully place the fish cakes in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Are you looking for a tasty and satisfying dinner recipe that’s both easy to make and sure to impress? Look no further than Yorkshire fish cakes! These delightful bites are a perfect blend of fresh, flaky fish and creamy mashed potato, all wrapped in a crispy golden crust. This blog post is your comprehensive guide to mastering the art of how to make Yorkshire fish cakes, from selecting the perfect ingredients to achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.
The Magic of Yorkshire Fish Cakes
Yorkshire fish cakes are a beloved British dish that combines the simplicity of traditional fish cakes with a unique Yorkshire twist. The key lies in the inclusion of Yorkshire pudding batter, which adds a light and airy texture to the cakes. This batter not only creates a crispy exterior but also adds a subtle savory flavor that perfectly complements the fish and potato filling.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before embarking on your culinary journey, ensure you have all the essential ingredients at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fish: Choose a firm-fleshed fish like cod, haddock, or pollock. Fresh or frozen fish will work, but ensure it’s thawed thoroughly if using frozen.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which results in creamy mashed potatoes.
- Yorkshire Pudding Batter: This is the secret ingredient that elevates the dish. You can use a store-bought mix or make your own.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the filling.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous touch.
- Eggs: Eggs bind the mixture and help create a crispy crust.
- Breadcrumbs: These provide a crunchy coating.
- Milk: Used to adjust the consistency of the mashed potatoes.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning to taste.
- Oil: For frying the fish cakes.
Preparing the Fish and Potato
1. Cook the Fish: Poach or bake your chosen fish until cooked through. Gently flake the fish using a fork, discarding any bones.
2. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Boil them until tender, then drain and mash them thoroughly. Add a splash of milk and season with salt and pepper.
Assembling the Fish Cake Filling
1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, chopped onion, and chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Form the Cakes: Shape the mixture into even-sized patties, about 1-inch thick.
The Yorkshire Pudding Coating
1. Prepare the Batter: If using a store-bought mix, follow the instructions on the package. If making your own, whisk together flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
2. Coat the Cakes: Dip each fish cake into the Yorkshire pudding batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Bread the Cakes: Roll the batter-coated cakes in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Frying to Perfection
1. Heat the Oil: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the Cakes: Carefully place the fish cakes in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain and Serve: Remove the fish cakes from the pan and drain on kitchen paper. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments, such as peas, green beans, or a side salad.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fish cakes in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjust the Batter: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the filling for a personalized touch.
- Serve with a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing touch to the dish.
A Culinary Masterpiece: Yorkshire Fish Cakes
Yorkshire fish cakes are a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, versatile, and sure to please even the most discerning palate. With their crispy exterior, creamy filling, and unique Yorkshire twist, these fish cakes are a true culinary masterpiece.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly in this recipe.
Q: What other types of fish can I use?
A: You can use other firm-fleshed fish like cod, haddock, or pollock.
Q: Can I bake the fish cakes instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the fish cakes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Q: What are some good accompaniments for Yorkshire fish cakes?
A: Yorkshire fish cakes pair well with peas, green beans, a side salad, or even a creamy coleslaw.
