Fried Fish Balls from Brussels

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly flavorful, these Fried Fish Balls from Brussels are a culinary delight inspired by European street food. Made with tender white fish fillets and creamy mashed potatoes, they are infused with zesty lemon, fresh parsley, and a touch of paprika for a delightful depth of flavor. Each bite-sized ball is coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, creating a satisfying contrast of textures. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or finger food, these fish balls pair wonderfully with a tangy tartar sauce or a velvety lemon aioli. Quick to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe will bring a taste of Brussels to your table that’s sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock)
• 200 grams potatoes
• 1 egg
• 50 grams all-purpose flour
• 100 grams panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 500 milliliters vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water for 10-15 minutes, or until soft. Drain and mash them, then set aside to cool.

Step 2

Chop the white fish fillets into small chunks and process them in a food processor until smooth.

Step 3

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, processed fish, egg, lemon zest, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

Step 5

Prepare three separate bowls: one with the flour, one with a beaten egg (you may need an additional egg), and one with the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 6

Roll each fish ball in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a tray.

Step 7

In a deep frying pan or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to 180°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.

Step 8

Fry the fish balls in small batches, ensuring they don't overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 9

Remove the fried fish balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 10

Serve the fish balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a lemon aioli.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(920.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1274.1

Total Fat 15.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.7g
Cholesterol 446mg	0%
Sodium 3462.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 163.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.7g	0%
Total Sugars 10.0g
Protein 121.1g	0%

Vitamin D 1048IU	0%
Calcium 186.0mg	0%
Iron 12.2mg	0%
Potassium 2815.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 10.6%

Protein: 38.1%

Carbs: 51.3%