Fish and Peanut Balls

Fish and Peanut Balls Recipe from Mozambique

Region / culture: Mozambique | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish and Peanut Balls are a delicious and unique appetizer that combines the flavors of fish and peanuts in a crispy and flavorful ball. These balls are perfect for serving at parties or as a tasty snack.

History

The recipe for Fish and Peanut Balls has its origins in West African cuisine, where peanuts are a common ingredient in many dishes. The combination of fish and peanuts creates a rich and savory flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

1 cup raw peanuts
2 lb (907 g) tilapia fish
juice of 1 lemon (3 tbsp)
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
6 thin slices onion
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 medium onions, grated
sprig parsley, chopped
teaspoon salt
about 0.25 cup chicken broth
vegetable oil for frying

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and bake them until they are lightly golden, about 10 minutes, shaking occasionally.
Remove the peanuts from the oven and let them cool. Then, grind them in a food processor and set them aside.
Season the fish with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and onion slices. Set it aside for 30 minutes.
Heat oil in a medium skillet and sauté the fish in the oil until it turns golden on both sides. Remove the fish from the skillet and let it cool. Then, flake the fish.
Add onions, parsley, salt, and ground peanuts to the fish. Mix them well.
Add enough broth to hold the ingredients together.
Shape the mixture into balls and fry them in hot oil until they turn golden on all sides.
Serve the fish balls warm or at room temperature with drinks.

Variations

Add chopped cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.
Use different types of fish such as salmon or tilapia for a different taste.
Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to grind the peanuts finely to ensure a smooth texture in the fish balls.

- Be sure to season the fish well with lemon juice, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.

- Use a non-stick skillet to fry the fish balls to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fish and Peanut Balls with a side of spicy dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the peanuts before grinding them adds a depth of flavor to the fish balls.

- Sautéing the fish before flaking it ensures a crispy texture in the final dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond flour or breadcrumbs instead of ground peanuts.

- Substitute chicken or shrimp for the fish for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the fish mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fish and Peanut Balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Fish and Peanut Balls with a cold beer or a glass of white wine for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Fish and Peanut Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fish and Peanut Balls contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fish and Peanut Balls contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fish and Peanut Balls contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fish and Peanut Balls contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fish and Peanut Balls are a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

Fish and Peanut Balls contain peanuts and fish, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fish and Peanut Balls are a nutritious and delicious appetizer that is high in protein and healthy fats. They are a great option for those looking for a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Summary

Fish and Peanut Balls are a flavorful and unique appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these balls are a delicious addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny afternoon in the village where I grew up, and I was visiting with my neighbor, Mrs. Tan. Mrs. Tan was known for her delicious cooking, and I had always admired her culinary skills.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on fragrant herbal tea, Mrs. Tan suddenly pulled out a tattered old recipe book from her cupboard. She flipped through the pages with a smile, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia.

"Ah, here it is," she exclaimed, pointing to a faded page. "Fish and Peanut Balls. This was one of my mother's favorite recipes, and she passed it down to me."

I leaned in closer, eager to see the ingredients and instructions. The recipe called for fresh fish fillets, ground peanuts, garlic, ginger, and a mix of aromatic spices. Mrs. Tan explained each step in detail, her voice filled with warmth and passion for cooking.

I was mesmerized by the simplicity and elegance of the recipe. It combined the flavors of the sea with the earthiness of peanuts, creating a harmonious blend that sounded absolutely delicious.

After jotting down the recipe in my own notebook, I thanked Mrs. Tan for sharing it with me. She smiled and patted my hand affectionately.

"Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe. It's about passion, creativity, and love for the ingredients," she said. "Make this dish with your heart, and it will turn out perfect every time."

With those words ringing in my ears, I set out to make Fish and Peanut Balls for the first time. I carefully selected the freshest fish from the market, ground the peanuts to a fine powder, and minced the garlic and ginger with precision.

As I mixed the ingredients together, I felt a sense of connection to my roots and to Mrs. Tan's mother who had passed down this recipe through generations. I shaped the mixture into small balls and gently fried them until they turned golden and crispy.

The aroma that wafted through my kitchen was intoxicating – a mix of savory fish, nutty peanuts, and fragrant spices. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When I took my first bite of the Fish and Peanut Balls, I was transported back to Mrs. Tan's kitchen, surrounded by laughter and the comforting scent of home-cooked meals. The dish was everything I had hoped for – tender, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

I shared the Fish and Peanut Balls with my family, who marveled at the unique combination of ingredients and flavors. They praised my cooking skills and urged me to make the dish again soon.

From that moment on, Fish and Peanut Balls became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, and whenever I needed a taste of nostalgia.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I experimented with different types of fish, herbs, and spices, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Each time I made Fish and Peanut Balls, I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards Mrs. Tan for sharing her family recipe with me. It had become more than just a dish – it was a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of cooking.

As I sit here now, recounting the story of how I learned to make Fish and Peanut Balls, I can't help but smile. Cooking has always been my passion, my creative outlet, and my way of connecting with my heritage.

And so, I will continue to cherish this recipe, passing it down to future generations with the same love and care that Mrs. Tan showed me that sunny afternoon in the village. Fish and Peanut Balls will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.