Bacalhau com Banana Frita
A delightful Cape Verdean dish featuring salted cod (bacalhau) prepared with onions and tomatoes, served alongside sweet, crispy fried bananas. This combination of savory and sweet is a hallmark of Cape Verdean cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Salted cod (bacalhau)(desalted and flaked)
- 4 medium Ripe plantains(peeled and sliced diagonally)
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- to taste Salt
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If your bacalhau is not pre-desalted, soak it in cold water for at least 24-48 hours, changing the water several times. Then, flake the cod, removing any bones or skin.
💡 Tip: Soaking is crucial to remove excess salt. - 2
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and flaked bacalhau. Season with black pepper. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cod to cook through.
💡 Tip: Adjust salt only after tasting, as bacalhau can still be salty. - 5
While the bacalhau is simmering, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Fry the sliced plantains until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
💡 Tip: Ensure plantains are ripe but firm for best results. - 6
Serve the bacalhau mixture hot, topped with fresh cilantro, alongside the crispy fried plantains.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The ripeness of the plantains affects the sweetness and texture of the fried bananas.
- ✓Ensure the bacalhau is properly desalted to avoid an overly salty dish.
- ✓This dish is often served with a side of rice or simple boiled yams.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce for extra depth.
- Incorporate olives or capers into the bacalhau mixture for a briny kick.