How to Make Turkish Fish Cakes with Dill

Turkish fish cakes, known as "köfte," are a delightful way to enjoy seafood with traditional Mediterranean flavors. The addition of dill enhances their freshness, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Turkish fish cakes with dill.

Ingredients

500g white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small bunch of fresh dill, chopped
1-2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 egg
Salt and pepper, to taste
Breadcrumbs, for coating
Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until they are tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before mashing them until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Fish

In a separate pot, add the fish fillets and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. Remove from heat, drain, and flake the fish with a fork, discarding any bones and skin.

3. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Add the egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a few breadcrumbs to firm it up.

4. Shape the Fish Cakes

With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round or oval patties. Place each patty on a plate. Once all the mixture is shaped, you can chill the fish cakes in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.

5. Coat the Fish Cakes

Spread some breadcrumbs on a plate. Take each fish cake and lightly coat it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer covers all sides. This will give the fish cakes a delicious crispy texture when fried.

6. Fry the Fish Cakes

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the fish cakes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish cakes and place them on paper towels to soak up excess oil.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Turkish fish cakes warm, accompanied by a side of yogurt sauce or a fresh salad. They also pair beautifully with lemon wedges for an extra zest. These fish cakes make for a wonderful appetizer or a light main dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Tips for Perfect Fish Cakes

Choose fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.
Do not over-mash the potatoes; some texture adds to the overall experience.
For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the mixture.
These fish cakes can be frozen before or after frying for later enjoyment.

Enjoy making and savoring these delightful Turkish fish cakes with dill, and introduce a taste of Turkey into your kitchen!