Crispy Spiced Fish Fritters

Ingredients

In this Uzbek-inspired adaptation, we incorporate traditional Uzbek spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Additionally, we use local Uzbek herbs like dill and parsley to add a fresh and vibrant element to the fritters. The cooking technique remains the same, with the fritters being deep-fried to achieve a crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Otak-otak goreng, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, deboned and finely chopped 500g (1.1 lb) white fish fillets, deboned and finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped fish, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, dill, parsley, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take a spoonful of the fish mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Repeat until the pan is filled with fritters, but make sure not to overcrowd.
4. 4.
   Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the crispy spiced fish fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger Uzbek-inspired meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Ensure the fish fillets are deboned and finely chopped to achieve a smooth texture in the fritters.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh dill and parsley for the best flavor. Chop them finely to evenly distribute the herbal notes throughout the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the fish mixture.
• Serve the fritters with a tangy yogurt-based dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can also bake the fritters in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Serving advice

Serve the crispy spiced fish fritters as an appetizer with a side of yogurt sauce or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad and steamed rice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with a colorful dipping sauce to make them visually appealing.