National Dish Spain: Croquetas de Bacalao (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Croquetas de Bacalao, one of Spain’s most beloved tapas! These little croquettes pair a creamy, cod-filled centre with a crisp, golden crust, making them irresistible whether you serve them as a starter or as part of a bigger spread. Simple to make from a handful of everyday ingredients, they bring a genuine taste of Spanish tradition straight to your table. Pour a glass of chilled white wine and enjoy.
About Croquetas de Bacalao
Croquetas de Bacalao are a classic Spanish dish, prized for their delicious contrast of soft, creamy filling and crunchy coating. These small dough balls are filled with cod and are most often served as tapas or as a starter. The preparation is straightforward and calls for only a few common ingredients that are easy to find. With their distinctive flavour, these croquettes bring a piece of Spanish tradition directly to your table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g cod (cooked and flaked)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 30 g butter
- 50 g plain flour
- 250 ml milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs, for coating
- 1–2 eggs, for dipping
Shopping for the ingredients
To make perfect Croquetas de Bacalao, it is worth choosing fresh ingredients. When buying the cod, look for good-quality, fresh fish to get the best flavour. The other ingredients, such as olive oil and flour, can be found in any supermarket. Some markets stock special Spanish products that can make your croquettes even more authentic.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, it is important to prepare all the ingredients. Chop the onion as finely as possible to ensure it is evenly distributed through the mixture. Cook the cod beforehand if it is not already cooked, and let it cool before flaking it. These steps make sure your croquettes have the right consistency and the best flavour.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a pan and add the chopped onion. Fry until translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and stir well to avoid any lumps.
- Slowly stir in the milk, mixing constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add the flaked cod and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture cool completely.
- Shape the cooled mixture into small balls, then roll them in beaten egg followed by breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep-fryer or pan and fry the croquettes until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of the Croquetas de Bacalao, you can use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour. Be sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating too. To make the recipe lactose-free, replace the milk with lactose-free milk or a plant-based alternative such as almond or oat milk. These adjustments let you enjoy the dish to the full without giving up any of the key ingredients.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans, a creative alternative is to swap the cod for puréed chickpeas or aubergine to achieve a similar texture. Instead of eggs, a mixture of flaxseed and water can be used to hold the croquettes together. This gives you a delicious vegan version that still reflects the typical flavour of the classic croquettes. Give it a try and be surprised by just how well these alternatives work — much like the meat-free magic of Espinacas con Garbanzos.
More tips and tricks
To make the Croquetas de Bacalao even tastier, you can add various herbs and spices to the mixture, such as parsley or garlic. These ingredients give the croquettes an extra burst of flavour. The temperature of the oil when frying is also crucial — oil that is too hot can burn the outer layer, while oil that is too cold can make the croquettes greasy. Another good tip is to drain the croquettes on kitchen paper after frying to remove any excess oil.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Depending on your personal preferences, you can adapt the recipe for Croquetas de Bacalao. Try adding extra ingredients such as peppers or olives to vary the dish. If you like a bit of heat, for example, a pinch of chilli powder could add an exciting note. Experiment with the flavours and find the perfect combination for your own palate.
Ingredient substitutions
There are plenty of alternatives when it comes to swapping out ingredients. Instead of cod you could use tuna, or even a mix of different seafood, much as you might in a Caldereta de Marisco. The olive oil can also be replaced with a neutral oil, although this can affect the dish’s characteristic flavour. Be creative and try out different combinations to create your own perfect recipe.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs wonderfully with Croquetas de Bacalao to round off the tasting experience. A crisp white wine, such as an Albariño or Verdejo, works well with the salty notes of the cod. For an alcohol-free option, a refreshing lime and mint soda is a great choice. These drinks complete the tapas experience and bring out the flavours all the more.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of your Croquetas de Bacalao can lift the whole dining experience considerably. Serve the croquettes on a rustic wooden board or in an attractive ceramic dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime to enhance both the flavour and the look. An appealing presentation shows attention to detail and makes the meal all the more enjoyable, especially when paired with sides like Patatas Revolconas.
A bit of history
Croquetas have their origins in Spanish cooking and have been a popular dish since the 19th century. Originally at home in fine dining, they have since found their way into the everyday kitchens of many Spaniards. The filling varies widely, with cod being one of the traditional choices. The dish reflects Spanish culture, which places great value on fresh ingredients and the sharing of food — qualities at the heart of all Spanish cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Croquetas de Bacalao
Croquetas de Bacalao are not only a delicious tapas option but also easy to make and adapt. With their combination of tender cod and a crisp coating, they are a highlight of any Spanish table. Whether served as a starter or as a main course, these little balls bring joy and flavour to every meal. Let Spanish cooking inspire you and savour the exquisite flavours of this delicacy.
