Pike, a firm-fleshed freshwater fish, often gets overlooked, but it's a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. These crispy pike fish cakes are a testament to that, transforming this delicious fish into a delightful and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor and texture, they're surprisingly easy to make, offering a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional fishcakes. Forget bland, overcooked fish – these cakes are bursting with the natural goodness of pike, enhanced with a carefully chosen blend of herbs and spices. The perfect appetizer or light meal, they're sure to impress.
From tender, flaky pike to a perfectly golden-brown crust, these fish cakes are a taste sensation. The secret lies in a simple yet effective preparation method that unlocks the pike’s full potential. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create these incredible crispy pike fish cakes together!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Pike fillets
- Tin foil
- Cooking oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Breadcrumbs
- Large egg: 1
- Fresh lime juice
- Seeded jalapeno: 1
- Cilantro: 1 tablespoon
- Green onion: 1/2
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pike & Baking
- Spray tin foil with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange random-sized pieces of cleaned pike fillets on the foil.
- Season the pike with salt and pepper.
- Bake the pike at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Step 2. Make the Fish Cake Batter
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, egg, lime juice, seeded jalapeno, cilantro, and half a green onion.
Step 3. Combine & Form Fish Cakes
- Once the pike is cooked, break it into smaller pieces and mix it with the ingredient mixture.
- Form the mixture into thin, cake-like patties.
Step 4. Sear & Crisp the Fish Cakes
- Sear the fish cakes in a frying pan for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Read more: Super Easy Fall-Off-Bone Chinese Style Ribs: One-Pot Recipe
Tips
- For extra flavor, sprinkle cheese or a little extra lime juice on top.
- Making fish cakes is an easy way to use leftover or scrappy pieces of pike.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pike for this recipe?
Yes, ensure the pike is fully thawed and patted completely dry before proceeding with the recipe. This helps achieve a crispier exterior.
2. What can I serve these fish cakes with?
They're delicious on their own, but also pair well with a tartar sauce, lemon wedges, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
These crispy pike fish cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy this often-underappreciated fish. Their ease of preparation and delicious flavor make them a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. So gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the delightful crunch and taste of homemade pike fish cakes!