Norwegian Bacalao
A hearty and flavorful stew made with rehydrated salted cod (bacalao), potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and olives. This dish, with Spanish influences, is a popular comfort food in Norway, especially during colder months.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Salted cod (bacalao)(watered out and rehydrated)
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and sliced)
- 1 kg Onions(sliced)
- 2 large Red bell peppers(sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Chili peppers(finely chopped (adjust to taste))
- 3 cans (400g each) Canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 jar (pitted) Black olives
- 1.5 dl Olive oil
- 4 Bay leaves
- 10 Whole peppercorns
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using salted cod, soak it in cold water for 24-36 hours, changing the water at least twice, until rehydrated. Drain and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
💡 Tip: Optional, for a more baked texture. - 3
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and chopped chili peppers, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Layer the ingredients in the pot: start with a third of the sliced potatoes, followed by a third of the cod pieces, then a third of the sliced bell peppers, and a third of the canned tomatoes. Repeat these layers two more times.
💡 Tip: Ensure even distribution for consistent cooking. - 6
Tuck in the bay leaves and whole peppercorns. Scatter the pitted black olives over the top.
💡 Tip: The olives add a briny depth to the stew. - 7
Pour any remaining olive oil over the layers. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
💡 Tip: A tight-fitting lid is crucial for steaming the ingredients. - 8
Simmer on low heat on the stovetop for about 2 hours, or bake in the preheated oven for the same duration, until the potatoes are tender and the cod is flaky.
💡 Tip: Avoid stirring too much, as this can break up the cod. - 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Bacalao is often served with crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the salted cod is essential to remove excess salt and achieve the right texture.
- ✓If you can't find salted cod, fresh cod can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- ✓The layering method helps all ingredients cook evenly.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce for extra flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of tomato paste for a richer sauce.
- For a spicier version, add more chili peppers.