Bolinho de Bacalhau
Disputed, Brazil
Bolinho de bacalhau is a fried croquette of salt cod, mashed potato, egg and herbs. The outside should be crisp and browned, while the inside is soft, savory and fragrant with parsley. It is usually small enough to share or eat as a bar snack.
Why locals eat it
The croquette came through Portuguese cooking and became part of Brazil’s boteco and festive food vocabulary. In Rio it is a natural accompaniment to drinks and shared plates, showing how an imported preparation became ordinary urban bar food.
Local tip
Ask whether the croquettes are made with a high proportion of cod and eat them hot. A squeeze of lime can brighten the saltiness, but taste one plain first.
Typically made with
salt cod, potatoes, eggs, onions, parsley, olive oil. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.