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Easy Air Fryer Fish Cakes Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional frying, look no further than the air fryer. Fish cakes provide a versatile base that you can customise to your liking, and preparing them in the air fryer is not only simple but also results in a delightful crispy exterior. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as a party starter. So, let’s dive in and create some mouth-watering fish cakes!

Ingredients

For the fish cakes:

• 400g white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
• 250g potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 100g breadcrumbs (for coating)

For serving:

• Tartar sauce or homemade dip
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh salad leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the chopped potatoes until they are tender (approximately 15-20 minutes). Drain and allow to cool slightly before mashing them until smooth.

2. Cook the Fish: While the potatoes are cooking, place the fish fillets in a steamer or a pan with a little boiling water, cover, and steam for about 10 minutes, or until cooked through. Once cooked, flake the fish with a fork and set aside.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked fish, chopped onion, garlic, beaten egg, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep a pleasant texture.

4. Shape the Fish Cakes: With clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into patties or cakes, about the size of the palm of your hand. This recipe should yield around 8-10 fish cakes, depending on the size you prefer.

5. Coat the Fish Cakes: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Lightly coat each fish cake in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well covered. This will give them a lovely crunchy texture when cooked.

6. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (355°F) for about 5 minutes.

7. Cook the Fish Cakes: Place the fish cakes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil to help achieve a golden, crispy finish. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the fish cakes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and a crisp salad for a light meal.

Tips for Success

• Fish Variety: Feel free to use different types of fish according to your preference. Salmon, pollock, or even canned fish can work beautifully in this recipe.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to the mixture for added nutrition and flavour.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the fish cake mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape and cook them when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

These air fryer fish cakes are bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. They are not only simple to make but also packed with flavour and nutrition. Serve them with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy a satisfying meal that feels just right any day of the week. Enjoy your cooking!