Codfish

Cod Bacalhau: A Quick and Tasty Delicacy

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of the Cod Bacalhau recipe is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being considered a delicacy in various corners of the world. Salted fish was an essential ingredient among sailors and traders, providing an efficient way to preserve food during long journeys. Today, this delicious dish is often served on special occasions but can easily be prepared on ordinary days, bringing a splash of flavor to home meals.

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of salted cod (approximately 500g)
- 1 bag of French fries (or fresh potatoes that you can cut and fry)
- 2 large onions
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 100g olives (preferably green or black olives, depending on preference)
- Olive oil (approximately 4 tablespoons)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Desalting the fish
Start by desalting the cod a day in advance. Place the pieces of fish in a bowl, cover them with cold water, and change the water every 6 hours. This will help reduce the salt content, preparing it for cooking.

Step 2: Boiling the cod
Once the fish is desalted, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pieces of cod and a bay leaf. Boil the fish for about 15-20 minutes until it becomes tender and easy to flake. Once boiled, remove the fish from the water and let it cool slightly. Then, carefully debone it, removing the skin and bones.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. The flavors will start to meld, providing a delicious base for the dish.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
After the onions and garlic are sautéed, add the boiled and deboned fish to the skillet. Gently stir, being careful not to break the fish too much. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Adding the potatoes and eggs
If you choose to use fresh potatoes, now is the time to fry them. If using store-bought fries, add them directly to the skillet. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add them to the skillet mixture. Continue stirring until the eggs coagulate and integrate well into the dish.

Step 6: Finishing the dish
Add the sliced olives and chopped parsley. Mix everything to distribute the flavors evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove the skillet from the heat.

Serving:
Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh green salad and boiled chickpeas. These sides add a note of freshness and an additional source of protein. A slice of lemon can be added for a touch of acidity, which will further enhance the flavors of the fish.

Helpful tips:
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add some spices like paprika or cumin.
- Instead of olives, you can experiment with capers or even roasted bell peppers.
- Cod can be replaced with another white fish, such as halibut or haddock, depending on preference.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g

Frequently asked questions:
1. What type of fish can I use instead of cod?
You can use other types of white fish, such as haddock or halibut. Make sure the fish is fresh or well-preserved.

2. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can omit the eggs or replace them with a plant-based substitute, such as potato puree or tofu.

3. How can I store salted fish?
Salted fish can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a few days. If you have leftover boiled fish, you can freeze it for later use.

Thus, Cod Bacalhau is a quick and delicious recipe that can be adapted to your tastes. Experimenting with ingredients and serving methods can transform this classic dish into a memorable culinary experience. Try it and bring a splash of flavor to your meals!