Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe

There’s something seriously satisfying about turning a mundane evening into a culinary adventure, and this savory salted cod stew is like taking a flavor-packed Mediterranean vacation right in your own kitchen!

Baccala Stew, a dish I love, combines the hearty and rich flavors of salted cod, potatoes, and bell peppers. Their tastes blend in a savory way.

They don’t taste like the same dish when you eat it. While the olive oil and capers and crushed tomatoes and cod complete and complement the dish’s taste, what is contagious about the flavor is the aroma that wafts and envelops you as you eat it.

Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe Ingredients

• Salted Cod Fish: High-protein seafood with Omega-3 fatty acids.

  A lean, heart-healthy option.

• Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats, rich in monounsaturated fats for cardiovascular health.
• Garlic: Contains antioxidants, boosts immune system, and may reduce blood pressure.
• Crushed Tomatoes: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Potatoes: Good source of carbohydrates and fiber for energy and digestive health.
• Capers: Adds a tangy, briny taste; low in calories yet full of flavor.

Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb salted cod fish, soaked and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fish or vegetable stock
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make this Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe

1. Start your preparation of the salted cod by soaking it in water for 1 to 2 days. Make sure to change the water every 8 hours. This will take care of any excess salt in the cod. After this good long soak, give the cod a sweet little rinse, then move on to dicing the fish into pieces small enough to fit in your mouth.

2. In a huge pot or Dutch oven, warm extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it is translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

3. Mix in the chopped garlic and let it fry for another 30 seconds for the aroma to come out.

4. Crushed tomatoes and fish or vegetable stock should be added to the pot. The ingredients should be stirred well and brought to a gentle simmer.

5. Add the diced potatoes and the chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Stir to bring together all of the ingredients.

6. To the stew, add the diced salted cod, sliced green olives, and rinsed capers. Mix well.

7. Add the dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes. Season to taste with salt and black pepper, keeping in mind that the cod is quite salty.

8. Place a lid on the pot and allow the stew to gently simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the flavor combination is harmonious.

9. When the stew is finished cooking, take it off the heat and mix in the fresh parsley and lemon juice.

10. Permit the stew to rest for several moments prior to serving, permitting the flavors to settle. Serve scorching, with optional additional parsley as a garnish. Relish!

Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot or Dutch oven
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Mixing spoon
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup
7. Ladle

FAQ

• Q: How long should I soak the salted cod before using it in the recipe?The salted cod must be soaked for at least 24 hours, and during this time the water should be changed two to three times to take out the extra salt.
• Q: Can I use fresh cod instead of salted cod in this recipe?A: Indeed, you can use fresh cod; however, you may need to modify the uh, seasoning somewhat, as you would with any other fresh fish, because salted cod has a really, um, strong flavor that fresh cod does not.
• Q: How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?A: You can let the uncovered stew simmer for a lengthy period so that the liquid reduces or you can add a bit of tomato paste to it so that it thickens.
• Q: Is it possible to make this stew ahead of time?A: Definitely! Making the day-before stew can intensify the flavors. Reheat it slowly and tenderly before serving.
• Q: What can I serve with Baccala Stew?For a wonderful pairing with the rich flavors of the stew, opt for one of these:

  • Crusty bread
  • Rice
  • A simple green salad

• Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?A: Sure, the leftovers can be preserved for you in a sealed container for no more than three moon phases. When you wish to partake in the evening’s meal, first return them to their original state of temperature, and then heat them gently. Do this, and the contents of the container will be as close to the original evening’s meal as possible.

Baccala Stew Salted Cod Stew Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Salted cod: Use fresh cod or other white fish and add salt to your liking.
Avocado Oil: Substitute with olive oil or canola oil.
Crushed Tomatoes in a Can: Use ripe tomatoes that are either blended or pureed.
Black Olives: Replace with green olives or omit if preferred.
Parsley, fresh: Substitute with fresh cilantro or basil.

Pro Tips

1. Ensure Proper Cod Preparation The desalting process for the salted cod is crucial. Make sure to soak the cod for the full 1-2 days, changing the water every 8 hours, to effectively remove excess salt. This will prevent the final dish from being too salty.

2. Flavor Layering with Onions and Garlic When sautéing the onions, let them become soft and translucent before adding the garlic. This ensures the onions are well-cooked and sweet, and the brief sauté of the garlic will prevent it from burning while releasing its fragrance.

3. Tomato Quality Use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for this dish. A good brand of tomatoes will provide a richer and more balanced flavor to the stew.

4. Balance the Saltiness Although the cod is the star of the recipe, be mindful when adding additional salt, especially since the capers and olives also contribute to the saltiness. Adjust seasoning at the end after tasting.

5. Resting Time Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and flavorful dish.