A traditional Puerto Rican beach snack — Bacalaítos are golden, lacy fritters of salt cod bound in a whisper-thin sofrito batter and fried until crisp at the edges. They are sold by roadside vendors all over the island, always best eaten piping hot with a cold beer. The shredded cod, garlic and recao give each crunchy bite a deep, briny savor.
Bacalaítos
A traditional Puerto Rican beach snack — Bacalaítos are golden, lacy fritters of salt cod bound in a whisper-thin sofrito batter and fried until crisp at the edges.

Step by stepInstructions
- Desalt the cod by soaking it in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water several times. Drain, then simmer in fresh water for 15 minutes; drain, cool, and flake the fish, discarding any bones.
- In a bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and garlic powder, then stir in the sofrito, minced garlic, recao and water to form a thick, spoonable batter. Fold in the flaked cod.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Drop the batter by heaping spoonfuls, a few at a time, spreading each into a rough 4-inch (10 cm) round.
- Fry until deep golden and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately, hot.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps keep the fritters light. If the cod is still salty, hold off seasoning the batter with extra salt.

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