Welcome to my latest recipe, homemade fish cakes cooked in an air fryer, where we dive into the history and secrets behind the classic Danish fish cake, a treasure of Danish cuisine. In today’s post, we’ll explore how this traditional dish, served with freshly baked, coarse soft rye bread, can be experienced in a new era with the use of an air fryer.
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Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Table of Contents:
Where do fish cakes come from?
Homemade fish cakes have roots that go far back in Danish gastronomy. Historically, fish was an important source of protein in Denmark, especially in coastal areas. The fish cake as we know it today is a product of this rich fishing culture. It represents a simple yet delicious way to prepare fish that has been passed down through generations.
Types of Fish and Their Benefits
When it comes to homemade fish cakes cooked in an air fryer, the choice of fish is crucial. Here are some popular options:
I recommend this fresh Riesling for our classic fish cakes
Fish cakes made with cod call for a white wine with fine acidity and a mineral character – and here a dry Riesling from the Mosel is the perfect choice. The cool slate soil of the Saar valley gives the wine a sharp, stony minerality that lifts the mild flavour of the cod without overpowering it, and the wine’s fruity notes of citrus and green apple pair wonderfully with the dill in the mixture. I can warmly recommend Wiltinger Riesling Trocken VDP Ortswein Saar, Mosel 2020 – serve it well chilled at 8–10°C, and you have a combination that’s even better than the classic remoulade on its own.
- Cod: Known for its lean, white meat and mild flavour. Cod is ideal for those who prefer a subtle fish aroma.
- Saithe: Slightly firmer in texture than cod, offering a rich flavour. Perfect for those seeking a more distinct fish taste.
- Salmon: A fattier fish with a rich, full flavour. Salmon adds a luxurious texture to the cakes.
- Plaice: A finer fish with a delicate flavour, ideal for a lighter version of the cake.
The combination of these fish can create a unique balance of flavour and texture. For example, a blend of cod and salmon can provide a perfect harmony between mild and rich flavour.
The air fryer gives you healthier patties
With the introduction of air fryer technology, it’s now possible to prepare these little delicacy cakes in a healthier way. Fish is already super healthy, and since the air fryer requires significantly less oil than traditional frying, that also means fewer calories and less fat. This cooking method also gives air fryer fish cakes a wonderfully crispy surface, while the inside stays juicy and delicious.
Fish cakes cooked in an air fryer – the recipe for perfection
The key to the perfect fish cake lies in the quality of the ingredients and the preparation. Freshness is essential – make sure the fish is of the highest quality. Once you’ve chosen your fish, combine it with fresh herbs, a little flour and egg to bind the mixture together. Spices also play an important role; a little salt, pepper and perhaps dill can work wonders.
Serving air fryer fish cakes with a twist
Traditionally, fish cakes are served with coarse rye bread – a classic in Danish cuisine. The rye bread, with its dense, nourishing texture and slightly sour taste, complements the fish perfectly. And remember, homemade remoulade is a must!
Try adding capers to your fish cakes. It tastes fantastic. Especially if they’re made from or with salmon.
Tips and tricks from the author: Morten Jensen
Final thoughts on fish cakes cooked in an air fryer
The fish cake is not just part of Danish culinary heritage; it’s a story of adaptation and innovation. With the use of air fryer technology, we can now enjoy this classic dish in a healthier and more modern way, without sacrificing the traditional taste and quality.
Recipe
Fish Cakes in the Air Fryer
Cooking Guide
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Cost of the dish
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Our estimate is based on average food prices for the current year 2026.
Estimated price for the whole dish:
Airfryer size
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Shopping list
Ingredients
- 500 g cod fillets
- 1 pcs onion
- 2 clove garlic
- 1 pcs egg
- 50 g plain flour
- 50 ml milk
- 1 tbsp fresh dill
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil
How to make it
- Prepare the Fish: Cut 500 g cod fillets into smaller pieces. Make sure to remove all bones.
- Make the Mixture:In a large bowl, combine the chopped fish pieces with finely chopped 1 pcs onion, pressed 2 clove garlic, 1 pcs egg, 50 g plain flour, and 50 ml milk. Add 1 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Mix well into an even mixture.
- Shape the Fish Cakes:With damp hands, shape the mixture into small, flat fish cakes.
- Prepare the Air Fryer:Lightly brush the fish cakes with 1 tbsp sunflower oil on both sides to ensure a golden surface.
- Cook the Fish Cakes:Place the fish cakes in the air fryer. Make sure they don’t touch each other to ensure even cooking.Cook them for 10 minutes at 200 degrees, then turn them carefully.Cook for a further 8 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through.Start the online kitchen timer here
Our notes for the recipe
Serving
When the fish cakes are golden and fully cooked in the air fryer, it’s time to think about plating. To create a complete meal experience, you can start by choosing a rustic, coarse rye bread.The rye bread can either be cut into slices or, for a more rustic look, broken into manageable pieces.
This bread provides a lovely contrast to the fine, seasoned fish cakes and adds a wonderful texture to the meal.
Spread a generous layer of homemade remoulade on each slice of rye bread
The remoulade, with its creamy consistency and tangy flavour, complements the fish perfectly. Next, place the warm fish cakes on top.It’s important that the fish cakes are warm, so they can soften the rye bread slightly and let the flavours melt together.
To complete the serving, you can add a handful of fresh herbs.
Finally, for an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little fresh dill or parsley over the dish.This adds not only colour but also a fresh herbal flavour that pairs well with both the fish cakes and the remoulade.
Your notes for the recipe
Nutrition per serving (Guideline)
Important about shelf life and nutrition
Nutrition per serving (guideline): Calculations are based on data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Shelf life (guideline): Shelf life data is provided, as far as possible, by public institutions, including national food authorities. Our information is therefore only indicative, and it is your responsibility to obtain and calculate accurate information about shelf life and nutrition for all recipes on airfryerkogebogen.dk
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