Name: North African Fish Cakes: 8 Amazing Flavors to Savor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 1 pound barramundi fish, skinless; 1.5 cups fresh, chunky breadcrumbs; 0.75 cup onion, minced; 0.33 cup fennel fronds, chopped; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon chermoula; 2 large eggs; 1 cup onion, diced; 0.5 cup fennel bulb, diced; 2 tablespoons chermoula; 1 can whole tomatoes; 0.5 teaspoon salt; to taste black pepper; olive oil

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North African Fish Cakes are a delightful twist on traditional fish dishes, bringing a medley of spices and flavors to your dining table. These cakes, braised in a rich chermoula sauce, are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to enjoy healthy fish. With their tender texture and aromatic seasoning, they promise to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This North African Fish Cakes

There are many reasons to indulge in these flavorful fish cakes. First, they are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritious option for dinner. Second, the use of fresh barramundi lends a flaky texture that’s simply irresistible. Third, with the blend of smoked paprika and chermoula, you get an explosion of North African spices that tantalize the palate. Furthermore, they can easily be made gluten-free by using appropriate breadcrumbs, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, these cakes can be served as appetizers or a main course, making them incredibly versatile. You can also explore variations like Moroccan Fish Cakes or Tunisian Fish Fritters for added excitement! You can find more delicious recipes on our last recipes page.

Ingredients for North African Fish Cakes

Gather these items:

1 pound barramundi fish, skinless
1.5 cups fresh, chunky breadcrumbs
0.75 cup onion, minced
0.33 cup fennel fronds, chopped
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon chermoula
2 large eggs
1 cup onion, diced
0.5 cup fennel bulb, diced
2 tablespoons chermoula
1 can whole tomatoes
0.5 teaspoon salt
to taste black pepper
olive oil

How to Make North African Fish Cakes Step-by-Step

Step 1: Chop the barramundi fish finely to create a tender base for the fish cakes.
Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped fish, breadcrumbs, minced onion, chopped fennel fronds, smoked paprika, chermoula, and eggs. Mix until well integrated and shape into 8 cakes.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 4 fish cakes and sear until golden brown on each side (about 3-4 minutes). Repeat with remaining cakes and set aside.
Step 4: If the pan looks dry, drizzle in more olive oil and heat over medium. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 5: Toss in diced fennel and continue to sauté for another 8-10 minutes until tender and aromatic.
Step 6: Stir in chermoula and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 7: Pour in whole tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens. Adjust salt to taste.
Step 8: Gently place seared fish cakes into the sauce, adding about a cup of water to cover halfway. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until cakes are firm but bouncy.
Step 9: Transfer fish cakes to a serving dish and garnish with additional fennel fronds and a swirl of chermoula before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best North African Fish Cakes

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh barramundi for best results.
Homemade breadcrumbs enhance flavor.
Adjust chermoula based on spice preference.
Consider adding chickpeas for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve North African Fish Cakes

These cakes can be served in various delightful ways. Consider pairing them with a simple green salad for a light dinner, or serve with a side of couscous for a heartier meal. For a true North African experience, accompany with a drizzle of tahini sauce or yogurt-based dip. You can also present them as appetizers at your next gathering, delighting your guests with exquisite flavors! For more serving ideas, check out our Moroccan Chickpeas recipe.

How to Store and Reheat North African Fish Cakes

After preparing these delicious cakes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to the pan to keep them moist. This method ensures you can enjoy these delightful cakes even on busy nights!

Frequently Asked Questions About North African Fish Cakes

What’s the secret to perfect North African Fish Cakes?

The secret lies in the quality of the fish and the freshness of the spices used. Ensuring the barramundi is fresh, and using homemade breadcrumbs can elevate the flavors significantly. Adjusting chermoula to your taste preferences can also enhance the dish.

Can I make North African Fish Cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the fish cakes in advance and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to cook them just before serving to enjoy their optimal taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with North African Fish Cakes?

One common mistake is overcooking the fish cakes, which can lead to dryness. Ensure they are just cooked through and remain moist. Also, be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to suit your palate while preparing.

Variations of North African Fish Cakes You Can Try

If you want to explore different flavors, consider these variations. For a more vibrant taste, try spiced fish cakes from North Africa by adding more herbs and spices. Alternatively, for a unique twist, incorporate chickpeas to create North African Fish Cakes with Chickpeas. You can also opt for baked North African Fish Cakes as a healthier version while still enjoying the delicious flavors.

North African Fish Cakes: 8 Amazing Flavors to Savor - North African Fish Cakes - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of fish, you can visit Healthline.