Asian-Style Gefilte Fish Patties

Succulent Sesame-Crusted Gefilte Fish Patties with Zesty Lime

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic dish that promises to update your culinary repertoire with a burst of flavor and texture: Succulent Sesame-Crusted Gefilte Fish Patties with Zesty Lime. This recipe takes the traditional gefilte fish and reinvents it with the addition of vibrant herbs, fragrant spices, and a crispy coating. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these patties are sure to become a favorite. Here’s why you should add this to your recipe collection.

What's special about this dish is the flavorful fusion of traditional gefilte fish with Asian accents. Fresh cilantro provides a herbaceous perk, while ginger and garlic pastes add depth and warmth to the patties. Zesty lime not only enhances the dish's overall freshness but also balances the richness of the fried patties. For perfect texture, ensure the green onions are sliced thin, the cilantro is chopped coarsely, and the lime is zested lightly. The key is to incorporate these ingredients seamlessly, creating a harmony of flavors that delight the palate.

Prepare your workspace by draining the gefilte fish thoroughly and organizing all the ingredients beforehand. A sizzling hot, nonstick pan is essential to achieving that golden-brown perfection. A quick tip: don’t skimp on the toasting of sesame seeds, as this amplifies their nutty aroma, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. Whether using store-bought pastes or crafting your own, these elements must blend seamlessly for a taste sensation. Embark on this culinary adventure, and relish in every step as you move closer to a meal that's as enticing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 green onions: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• ¼ bunch fresh cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbaceous taste.
• 2 limes: Provides zest for flavor and wedges for serving.
• 1 (24 oz) jar gefilte fish: The main protein, offering a tender texture.
• 2 tablespoons ginger stir-in paste: Contributes warmth and zest.
• 2 tablespoons garlic stir-in paste: Adds pungency and depth.
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce: Introduces a savory, umami element.
• 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs, divided: Ensures a crispy exterior.
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, divided: Offers nuttiness.
• ½ cup canola oil: Used for frying, maintaining a neutral flavor.
• ½ cup spicy mayonnaise: Perfect for serving, adding a creamy, spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by thinly slicing 3 green onions and coarsely chopping ¼ bunch of fresh cilantro.
2. Zest the limes to yield 2 teaspoons of zest, then cut each lime into 8 wedges for serving.
3. Drain the gefilte fish thoroughly to ensure optimal consistency when forming patties.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green onions, cilantro, gefilte fish, ginger paste, garlic paste, soy sauce, 1 cup of panko bread crumbs, ¼ cup of sesame seeds, and the lime zest.
5. Mix the ingredients well until homogenous, and then divide this mixture into 16 equal portions and form each into a patty, making sure edges are firm to prevent crumbling during cooking.
6. Prepare a coating by mixing the remaining ½ cup of panko bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds.
7. Gently press each patty into the panko-sesame mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. Heat ½ cup of canola oil in a large, nonstick sauté pan over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes, until shimmering but not smoking.
9. Cook the patties in batches, adding them carefully to the pan to avoid splattering.
10. Fry each side of the patties for about 2–3 minutes or until they reach a golden color and an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating cooked-through patties.
11. Serve the patties hot, accompanied by lime wedges and a dollop of spicy mayonnaise on the side.

Tips for Troubleshooting

• Too thick patties? Add a small amount of lime juice to the mix to make it more pliable.
• Patties breaking apart? Be sure the mixture is well-combined, and consider adding more panko if it's too moist.
• Too bland? Consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce for more flavor depth.
• Uneven browning? Ensure the oil is evenly distributed in the pan and at the correct temperature.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

Here are some creative and delicious pairings to complement your sesame-crusted gefilte fish patties:

• Side dishes: Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar for a crisp contrast.
• Drinks: A light, citrusy white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a cold, refreshing iced green tea balances the savory notes perfectly.
• Desserts or garnishes: Finish with a mango sorbet as a light and tropical end note that complements the main dish flavors.

How to Store Properly

• For refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve crispness, line the container with paper towels.
• For freezing: Arrange patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to regain their crispiness.

FAQs

• Can I make the patties ahead of time? Yes, prepare and form the patties and then refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. This can help the flavors develop.
• Is there a non-spicy alternative for the spicy mayo? Yes, you can mix plain mayonnaise with a touch of lemon juice for a milder option.
• What can I use instead of panko? Regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can serve as a suitable alternative.
• Can I bake these patties instead of frying? Absolutely, bake them at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, for a lighter option.