Thermomix Fish Patties: A Paleo Delight

My grandmother, a woman who believed in the power of simple, nourishing food, had a knack for turning the humblest ingredients into something extraordinary. I remember one summer, after a particularly successful fishing trip with my grandfather, she whipped up the most delicious fish cakes I’d ever tasted. The recipe was a closely guarded secret, scribbled on a faded index card. While I never fully replicated her exact flavor profile, these Thermomix fish patties, adapted for a Paleo diet, bring me right back to that sun-drenched kitchen, filled with the aroma of freshly caught fish and my grandmother’s love.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Servings: 8 patties
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Paleo, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 3 scallions
• 600 g fish, any kind you like (cod, salmon, tuna, or a mix)
• 2 eggs
• 70 g mayonnaise (Paleo-friendly if needed)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons coconut flour
• 1⁄4 cup oil (coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil)

Equipment Needed

• Thermomix
• Large Platter
• Parchment Paper
• Frying Pan or Skillet

Instructions

1. Begin by lining a large platter with parchment paper. This will prevent the patties from sticking as they chill. Set the platter aside.
2. Roughly chop the scallions and place them into the Thermomix bowl. Use the turbo function once or twice to finely mince the scallions. Remove the minced scallions from the bowl and set them aside.
3. Place the fish into the Thermomix bowl. The chopping time and speed will depend on the type of fish you are using. The goal is to mince the fish without turning it into a paste. For firmer fish like cod, try 20 seconds on speed 6. Adjust accordingly if using a more delicate fish like tuna. The fish should be in small pieces, not a puree.
4. With the Thermomix blades turning, carefully add the eggs to the bowl to incorporate them into the chopped fish.
5. Add the mayonnaise, reserved scallions, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and coconut flour to the Thermomix bowl. Mix for 10 seconds on speed 6.
6. Check the mixture to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined. If needed, mix for a few more seconds until everything is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties.
7. Using your hands, form the fish mixture into 8 patties of equal size.
8. Place the formed patties onto the prepared platter lined with parchment paper. Cover the platter and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
9. After the patties have chilled, heat the oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the patties to prevent them from sticking.
10. Gently place the chilled patties into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
11. Fry the patties for approximately 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if desired.
12. Remove the cooked patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
13. Serve the fish patties immediately while they are still hot and crispy.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Fish Selection: Experiment with different types of fish to find your favorite flavor combination. Salmon, cod, and tuna all work well. Consider using a mix of white fish and oily fish for a more complex flavor profile.
• Mayonnaise Choice: Using a high-quality mayonnaise makes a big difference. For a Paleo-friendly option, look for mayonnaise made with avocado oil.
• Texture Control: If the fish mixture seems too wet, add an extra tablespoon of coconut flour. If it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of mayonnaise or a splash of water.
• Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! This is crucial for preventing the patties from falling apart during cooking. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes in the freezer can help.
• Cooking Temperature: Maintaining a consistent medium heat is key. Too high, and the patties will burn on the outside before the inside is cooked through. Too low, and they will be greasy and soggy.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the fish mixture for a little kick.
• Batch Cooking: These patties are great for meal prepping. You can form them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Thermomix fish patties hot, as a main course. They pair well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a dollop of homemade tartar sauce (Paleo-friendly if needed). For a complete meal, consider serving them on top of a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside sweet potato fries.

Leftover fish patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

Freezing is also an option. Allow the cooked patties to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake or pan-fry as described above.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	320 kcal	16%
Total Fat	20g	31%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	120mg	40%
Sodium	250mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	8g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	N/A
Protein	25g	50%

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Fish: Feel free to experiment with other types of fish, such as shrimp, crab, or a combination of seafood. Adjust cooking times as needed.
• Herb Variations: Use different herbs to customize the flavor. Dill, cilantro, or chives would all be delicious additions.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Flour Alternatives: If you don’t have coconut flour, you can use almond flour or tapioca flour as a substitute.
• Egg Substitute: For an egg-free option, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
• Sweet Potato Fish Cakes: Add grated sweet potato for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fish, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using it. Excess moisture can make the patties fall apart.

Q: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can form the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure the pan is hot before adding the patties, and use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Non-stick cookware is also helpful.

Q: What should I serve with these fish patties?
A: These patties are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, salad, cauliflower rice, or sweet potato fries.

Q: Are these patties suitable for people with allergies?
A: This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, but it contains eggs and fish. Be sure to check the ingredients of the mayonnaise to ensure it is suitable for your specific dietary needs. Consider substitutions if necessary.

Final Thoughts

These Thermomix fish patties are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and Paleo-friendly meal. They are easy to make, customizable to your liking, and a great way to incorporate more fish into your diet. Whether you’re following a Paleo lifestyle or simply looking for a tasty and nutritious alternative to traditional fish cakes, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I’m sure they will bring a taste of sunshine to your kitchen, just like they did for me all those years ago. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and share your creations!