Tortitas de Bacalao

Tortitas de Bacalao are savory, pan-fried fritters made from shredded salt cod (bacalao) mixed with a batter of eggs, flour, and often mashed potatoes or breadcrumbs. They are a beloved staple in Spanish and Latin American cuisines, particularly popular in Spain, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The dish transforms simple, preserved fish into a crispy, golden patty that is often served as an appetizer or tapa.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein due to the cod and eggs, but also contains significant fat from frying and carbohydrates from the binder. A typical serving provides a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium, with a rough calorie count of 200-250 kcal per serving.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	220 kcal
Protein	18 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	680 mg
Vitamin B12	3.5 mcg
Selenium	32 mcg
Phosphorus	210 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Niacin (B3)	4.2 mg
Omega-3 (EPA+DHA)	0.4 g
Iron	1.2 mg
Zinc	1.5 mg

Per 3 small fritters (approx. 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Tortitas de Bacalao are a classic example of how preserved foods were historically used to create hearty, flavorful meals, and they are often served during Lent and other religious holidays in Catholic cultures. Nutritionally, they offer a unique combination of high-quality protein and healthy fats from the fish, making them a surprisingly nutrient-dense comfort food.