What is a Bacalao Croquette?

What Is a Bacalao Croquette? (And Why We Use Only 100% Authentic Cod)

If you’re building a Latin-inspired menu or exploring craveable seafood starters, bacalao croquettes deserve a place in your lineup. At Catalina Foods, we make ours the traditional way — using 100% real cod, never blends, fillers, or substitutes.

A Classic, Reimagined for Modern Menus

Bacalao is the Spanish word for cod, especially salted cod — a staple across Cuban, Portuguese, Dominican, and Spanish cuisines. Traditionally rehydrated and simmered with aromatics, it’s a bold, savory protein with deep culinary roots.

The croquette version transforms that flavor into a crispy, golden bite: cod folded into a creamy béchamel filling, breaded, and ready to fry.

100% Cod, No Shortcuts

Many suppliers cut corners by blending whitefish or starch-based fillers into their croquette recipes. We don’t.

Catalina’s bacalao croquettes are made with:

– Whole pieces of cod, not reconstituted fish paste

– A balanced filling that highlights the cod’s natural flavor

– A light, golden breaded coating that fries up crisp every time

This delivers premium flavor and clean label confidence to your team and your guests.

Built for Versatility

Whether you run a tapas-style concept or want to elevate your Latin small bites, bacalao croquettes perform across multiple menu placements:

– Appetizers

– Shared plates

– Bar snacks

– Tasting flights

– Brunch add-ons

They pair beautifully with citrus aioli, mojo verde, or simple lemon wedges.

Foodservice-Ready Specs

Catalina’s bacalao croquettes come frozen and uncooked, so you get:

– Consistent portion control(1.2 oz standard size)

– Fryer-ready prep— from freezer to service in minutes

– Zero yield loss

– SQF-certified safety, traceability, and peace of mind.

They’re ideal for high-volume kitchens, catering menus, and bakery/cafeteria cases that want something beyond beef or chicken.

Why It Matters

Your customers are seeking authentic flavors and better seafood. With Catalina’s bacalao croquettes, you’re serving the real thing — made in Florida, trusted for over 40 years, and always true to its roots.

Ready to try them? Ask your local distributor for Catalina Bacalao Croquettes or [contact us directly] to request a sample.

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