Newfoundland Fish Stew (Cod au Gratin Variation)
A hearty and comforting fish stew, a variation on traditional Newfoundland fare, featuring flaky cod, root vegetables, and a creamy, herb-infused broth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Cod fillets(skinless, boneless, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 150 g Salt pork(diced)
- 2 medium Yellow onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and diced)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 Celery stalks(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 60 g All-purpose flour
- 750 ml Milk
- 500 ml Fish or vegetable broth
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme(chopped)
- 1 Bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper(to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced salt pork over medium heat until crisp. Remove the salt pork with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 2
Add the chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Gradually whisk in the milk and broth until smooth. Add the bay leaf, chopped parsley, and thyme.
💡 Tip: Whisking gradually prevents lumps. - 6
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 7
Gently add the cod pieces to the simmering stew. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Do not overcook the fish.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 8
Remove the bay leaf. Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the reserved crispy salt pork.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a good quality fish stock.
- ✓Avoid stirring too vigorously after adding the fish to prevent it from breaking apart too much.
- ✓Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of heavy cream in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra richness.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
- A pinch of nutmeg can add a subtle warmth.