Classic British Fish Cakes

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic British Fish Cakes.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients to make this delicious dish.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, capers, shallot, parsley, tarragon, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Step 3

   Stir everything together until you have a smooth tartar sauce, then pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the rest of the meal.

4. Step 4

   Next, take a saucepan and pour in some milk, adding a bay leaf for extra flavor.

5. Step 5

   Gently place your fish pieces on top and season with a sprinkle of salt.

6. Step 6

   Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

7. Step 7

   Cook the fish for about a minute, just until it firms up but doesn’t start to flake.

8. Step 8

   Once done, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let it sit for five minutes.

9. Step 9

   After that, drain the fish and let it cool for about ten minutes before refrigerating it until you’re ready to use it.

10. Step 10

    While the fish cools, bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

11. Step 11

    Add a russet potato and cook it until it’s tender but still holds its shape.

12. Step 12

    Once cooked, drain the potato and mash it in a bowl.

13. Step 13

    Season it with salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne for a little kick.

14. Step 14

    Then, mix in some chopped parsley, chives, and lemon zest, along with a tablespoon of your chilled tartar sauce until everything is well blended.

15. Step 15

    Now, flake the cooled fish into the potato mixture and gently combine them until evenly mixed.

16. Step 16

    Take a scoop of the mixture, about a quarter of it, and shape it into a patty.

17. Step 17

    Repeat this process until you’ve formed all your patties.

18. Step 18

    Lightly dust each cake with flour on both sides, then brush them with beaten egg and coat them in breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.

19. Step 19

    Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully pan-fry the patties until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are heated through, which should take about three to four minutes per side.

20. Step 20

    Once they’re done, let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

21. Step 21

    Serve your crispy fish cakes with the homemade tartar sauce on the side, and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!.