Bacalaitos
Bacalaitos, another beloved fritter in Puerto Rico, is a must-try for any food lover. These delightful snacks are made by battering salted codfish and frying them into crispy hand-sized disks. The result is a flavorful and satisfying treat perfect for enjoying as a savory snack.
To prepare delicious Bacalaitos, one must begin by soaking the salted codfish to remove any excess salt. This is a crucial step to guarantee that the final product has the perfect seasoning. After being soaked, the codfish is shredded into small pieces and mixed into a batter made with flour and various seasonings. The batter is usually seasoned with ingredients like onions, red pepper, cilantro, and oregano to enhance the fritter's flavor profile.
After mixing the batter, it is fried in hot oil until it turns golden brown and crispy. The frying process brings out a savory and slightly salty flavor in the batter, resulting in delicious and crunchy fritters. Once cooked, the Bacalaitos are usually served hot and enjoyed as a handheld snack easily shared with friends and family.
Bacalaitos are not only famous in Puerto Rico but are also enjoyed in other parts of the Caribbean and Latin America. Portable and delicious, they're a popular option for picnics, food stalls, and casual get-togethers by the beach. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of San Juan or relaxing on a beautiful Puerto Rican beach, indulging in some crispy bacalaitos is a must for a true taste of the island's culinary delights.