Preparation time: A few minutes + 12 hours soaking time
Cooking time: 20 minutes + frying time

Pasteis de Bacalhau - Cod Fritters

There's no exact translation for the Portuguese word "pasteis" - it's a kind of frtter made from salt cod and potato, an intrinsic part of Portuguese cuisine, served as an hors d'oeuvre in restaurants, a snack in "tascas" or at fast-food counters and a staple of buffets. At home they're often served with rice and a salad as a simple meal. 

There are numerous variations. 

1. desalt the cod and soak for 12 hours;
2. half fill a saucepan with boiling water; add the potatoes and cod;
3. simmer uncovered over medium heat for 20 minutes or until the cod and potatoes are completely cooked;
4. remove the skin and bones from the cod;
5. put the cod and potatoes through a meat grinder or chop in a food processor;
6. blend in the egg yolks and parsley, season with a little pepper and nutmeg; 
7. beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and fold gently into the mixture;
8. form into fritters - take a large tablespoonful of the mixture and place another spoon of the same size on top to mold it; continue until all the mixture has been made into fritters; 
9. fry the fritters in hot oil for a few minutes on each side until browned; 
10. drain on paper towels; 
11. serve hot or cold.