Bacalhau - Portuguese Codfish Cakes

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb salt cod fish
• 1/2 cup olive oil, plus more for pan frying
• 2 cups coarse breadcrumbs, use day old bread
• 1 cup yellow onion, peeled and chopped fine
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 dashes Tabasco sauce
• salt and pepper
• 6 poached eggs, not overcooked

Directions

1. 1

   Rinse the cod several times in cold water. Place it in a large stainless steel bowl and soak for 18-24 hours in plenty of cold water.

2. 2

   Change the water several times.

3. 3

   Drain the cod and place it in a saucepan and just cover it with fresh water.

4. 4

   Bring to a boil and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

5. 5

   Drain, debone, and flake the cod.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, beat together the olive oil and bread crumbs.

7. 7

   Mix very well and then add the cod and the remaining ingredients, except the eggs.

8. 8

   Mix until well blended and then form into 6 patties, 1/2" by 3 1/2".

9. 9

   Pan fry in a little olive oil until golden brown on both sides.

10. 10

    Keep warm in the oven while you poach the eggs.

11. 11

    Serve each fish cake topped with a poached egg.