Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Portugal? Then get ready to savor the incredible flavors of this baked Bacalhau recipe! Bacalhau, or salted cod, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and this recipe delivers a truly authentic and delicious experience, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to homemade cooking, promising a delightful and healthy dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salt cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water several times
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
Instructions:
Preparing the Cod:
- This step is crucial for a fantastic bacalhau! Soak your salt cod thoroughly to remove excess salt. Change the water at least 3-4 times over 24 hours, keeping it in the refrigerator. The cod should be soft and pliable after soaking. Rinse it well before proceeding.
Baking the Bacalhau:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large oven-safe dish.
- In a large bowl, gently flake the soaked cod.
- In the prepared dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Next, arrange half of the sliced onions and minced garlic over the potatoes.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil.
- Top with the flaked cod, followed by the remaining onions and garlic.
- Layer the remaining potatoes on top, and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the milk evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add Kalamata olives and bell peppers (optional) for extra flavor and color.
- Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cod is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown.
Tips for the Best Bacalhau:
- Soaking is key: Don't skimp on the soaking time! Properly soaking the cod is essential for removing excess salt and achieving a tender texture.
- Olive oil matters: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can dry out the potatoes and cod. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. You might want to add a pinch of paprika for a smoky touch.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Creamy Bacalhau: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of baking for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This baked bacalhau recipe is a delicious and healthy meal option. It's packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and authentic Portuguese culinary experience. Enjoy!