Helen's Homemade Fishcakes Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 4 large baking potatoes
• Sea salt
• 3 salmon fillets
• 2 cod fillets
• Lemon juice
• White wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Butter
• 2 handfuls of finely chopped spring onions
• 1 handful of finely chopped parsley
• Flour
• 1 egg
• Breadcrumbs (homemade preferred)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 220°C (428°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Rub sea salt into the skins of 4 large baking potatoes. Place them in the oven and turn them every 20 minutes. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes until they are tender.

Cooking the Fish

1. Prepare the Fish: While the potatoes are baking, line a baking tray with foil, leaving enough to wrap the fish.
2. Season the Fish: Place 3 salmon fillets and 2 cod fillets on the tray. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the fish and drizzle with white wine if available.
3. Bake the Fish: Wrap the fish in the foil and bake for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked. Position the tray lower in the oven to avoid overcooking.

Combining Ingredients

1. Cool the Ingredients: Once the potatoes and fish are cooked, allow them to cool.
2. Mix the Fish and Potatoes: Flake the fish and scoop the insides of the potatoes into a bowl. Add salt, pepper, and a few knobs of butter.
3. Blend the Mixture: Lightly blend the mixture, being careful not to mash it completely. Add the finely chopped spring onions and parsley.
4. Chill the Mixture: Place the mixture in the fridge for a few hours until chilled. Once chilled, shape the mixture into round patties and chill again for at least half an hour.

Cooking the Fishcakes

1. Option 1 - Simple Frying: Lightly dust the patties in seasoned flour (salt and pepper) and fry immediately.
2. Option 2 - Breaded Fishcakes: Dust the patties in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. For best results, make your own breadcrumbs by toasting bread and crushing it, seasoning as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the fishcakes with a wedge of lemon and a fresh salad, perhaps with an oil and balsamic reduction dressing.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Fish Consumption: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global fish consumption has increased significantly, reaching an average of 20.5 kg per capita in 2018. This reflects a growing appreciation for seafood in diets worldwide. Source: FAO
• Health Benefits: Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week. Source: American Heart Association
• Sustainable Choices: When choosing fish, consider sustainable options. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certifies fisheries that meet rigorous environmental standards. Look for the MSC blue fish label to support sustainable fishing practices. Source: MSC

Conclusion

Helen's Homemade Fishcakes are a delightful and nutritious meal option that combines the rich flavors of salmon and cod with the comforting texture of baked potatoes. Whether you prefer them simply fried or breaded, these fishcakes are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making them from scratch and savor the delicious results!

This article has been crafted to provide a comprehensive and engaging guide to making homemade fishcakes, complete with interesting facts and reliable sources to enhance your culinary experience.