Cod Croquettes

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Brazilians love their appetizers, and these Cod Croquettes, or Bolinhos de Bacalhau, a Rio favorite, are among the most popular pre-dinner snacks. Perfect with a cold glass of beer and a soccer game, these savoury, bite-sized morsels will whet any appetite. Ingredients: 500g (18 oz.) dried salt cod 4 peppercorns 1 bay leaf 1 small onion, sliced 500ml (2 cups) cooled mashed potato 2 beaten eggs 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley Vegetable oil for frying How to Prepare: 1. Place salt cod in a larger bowl. Add cold water to cover completely. Place in refrigerator and soak for 24 hours, changing water three times. 2. Drain cod. Remove any skin or bones. Cut cod into small chunks. 3. In saucepan, combine 2 cups (500ml) water, peppercorns, bay leaf and onion. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Add cod and 2 cups (500ml) cold water. Return to a simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover. Cool to room temperature. (Recipe may be prepared to this point up to 24 hours ahead of serving. Store cod in liquid in refrigerator.) 4. Drain cod, discarding spices and onion. In large bowl and using a fork, flake the cod. Stir in mashed potato, eggs and parsley. Let mixture stand for a half hour before forming fritters. 5. In deep fryer, bring oil to 375ºF (190ºC). 6. Form cod mixture into balls 1-1/2 inches (4 cm) across. In batches, fry for 4 minutes or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot.