Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crisp, golden fritters made from salted cod and spices, double-fried for extra crunch, served with a spicy scotch bonnet pepper aioli. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 30 minutes blends all-purpose flour, baking powder, stalks, finely chopped scallions into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Add 8 oz soaked and flaked salted cod, 3 finely chopped scallions, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 small seeded and finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir to combine.
  3. Step 3: Gradually pour in 3/4 cup water, mixing until a thick batter forms that holds together but is not runny.
  4. Step 4: Heat 3 cups vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F for frying.
  5. Step 5: Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry for 3 minutes until golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  6. Step 6: After the first fry, increase oil temperature to 375°F and fry the fritters again for 1-2 minutes until extra crispy. Drain again.
  7. Step 7: For the aioli, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and a small pinch of minced scotch bonnet pepper if desired.
  8. Step 8: Serve the double-fried cod fritters hot with the spicy scotch bonnet aioli for dipping.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Double-Fried Salted Cod Fritters with Scotch Bonnet Aioli?

Caribbean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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