salt cod Recipes
12 delicious salt cod recipes from around the world
Bacalao a la Vizcaína
A classic Basque dish featuring salt cod simmered in a rich, sweet red pepper sauce. Traditionally served during Christmas Eve celebrations.
Bacalao al Ajoarriero
A hearty Navarrese salt cod dish featuring tender potatoes, sweet peppers, and a rich garlic-tomato sauce. Traditionally prepared by muleteers (ajoarrieros) for sustenance on long journeys.
Bacalao al Pil Pil
A classic Basque dish featuring salt cod gently cooked in olive oil, which then emulsifies with the released cod gelatin to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce. The 'pil pil' sound refers to the gentle bubbling of the oil during the emulsification process.
Bacalhau à Brás
A beloved Portuguese comfort food, this dish features shredded salt cod (bacalhau) mixed with finely julienned fried potatoes, softened onions, garlic, and scrambled eggs, creating a wonderfully silky and satisfying texture. It's often garnished with black olives and fresh parsley.
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
A beloved Portuguese classic from Porto, this comforting casserole features layers of salt cod, potatoes, onions, and hard-boiled eggs, all brought together with generous amounts of olive oil. The salt cod requires significant pre-soaking to rehydrate and desalinate.
Bacalhau com Natas (Portuguese Cod with Cream)
A rich and comforting Portuguese classic featuring salt cod baked with potatoes and a creamy sauce. This dish requires desalting the cod beforehand, which is crucial for its flavor.
Bacalhau Espiritual
An elegant and creamy baked cod dish, often served during Christmas, resembling a savory soufflé. This recipe features flaked salt cod bound in a rich béchamel-like sauce, enriched with egg yolks and lightened with whipped egg whites.
Brandade de Morue
A classic Provençal purée made from salt cod, olive oil, and garlic, creating a rich and creamy emulsion. Traditionally served as a spread on crusty bread or baked until golden and bubbly.
Pataniscas de Bacalhau
Pataniscas de Bacalhau are traditional Portuguese cod fritters, featuring flaky salt cod encased in a light, airy batter. They are a popular appetizer or light meal, often served with rice and salad.
Pimientos Rellenos (Spanish Stuffed Peppers)
A classic Basque specialty, these piquillo peppers are gently stuffed with a rich, flaked salt cod filling, then simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce. The sweetness of the piquillo peppers perfectly complements the savory cod.
Bolinho de Bacalhau
Brazilian salt cod fritters - crispy fried cod and potato balls. A beloved Portuguese legacy perfected in Brazil.
Accras de Morue
Mauritian salt cod fritters - crispy fried balls of salt cod batter. A popular Creole beach snack with distinct Indian Ocean influence.