Levantine cuisine · Fish & Seafood

Kaftet Samak

Spiced white fish patties with cilantro, parsley, and cumin, pan-fried golden brown in olive oil.

Ingredients · for 4 servings

• 600g firm white fish fillet
• 1 onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 bunch cilantro
• 1/2 bunch parsley
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 egg
• 4 tbsp breadcrumbs
• 1 lemon
• 6 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Instructions

1. Check the white fish fillet for bones, cut it roughly into cubes, and pulse briefly with the onion and garlic in a food processor into a still slightly chunky mixture.
2. Finely chop cilantro and parsley and mix into the fish mixture with cumin, paprika, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Chill the mixture covered for 15 min. – this helps it bind and makes it easy to shape afterward.
4. With damp hands, form 12 flat patties about 6cm across and press lightly.
5. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the patties over medium heat for 3–4 min. per side until golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Drain briefly on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges.