What are Bacalaitos?
Bacalaitos are a quintessential Puerto Rican street food: crispy, savory, and utterly addictive fried codfish fritters! Think of them as the island’s answer to fish and chips, but with a unique flavor profile that’s all its own.
The basic bacalaitos recipe involves preparing salted cod (though you can use fresh cod as well), whipping up a simple batter, and frying the mixture until golden brown and irresistibly crunchy. The key ingredients are, of course, the cod, flour, and a blend of spices that vary from cook to cook.
These fritters aren’t just food; they’re a cultural icon. Bacalaitos are a beloved snack and appetizer deeply embedded in Puerto Rican culinary tradition.