Baccala with Potatoes

 Ingredients: - 1 baccala fillet - 1 large box of chopped tomatoes - 1 onion chopped into 'fish shapes' - 3 potatoes - 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil - a little pepper - a little green parsley

Baccala, or the preserved cod, is an ingredient with a unique taste that brings a touch of Mediterranean flavor to any meal. Preparing this fish requires some attention, especially in the desalting process, which is essential for achieving a delicious final result. The first step is to prepare the fish, which should be left in cold water to desalt. It is recommended to leave it in water for at least four hours, changing the water every 30 minutes. Some chefs prefer to desalt it for 24 hours, which can further improve the texture and flavor. After it has been desalted, rinse the fish well under cold running water and dry it with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. Then, cut it into appropriately sized pieces so that it cooks evenly.

While the fish is desalting, prepare the potatoes. Peel them and cut them in half lengthwise. Then slice them into thin rounds and immediately place them in cold water to prevent oxidation, so they remain white and appetizing. This simple trick will make the final dish more appealing.

In a pot, add olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it sauté for about five minutes until it becomes slightly transparent. Then, incorporate the diced tomatoes, which will add a note of acidity and sweetness to the dish. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the tomatoes have softened, add the fish and potatoes to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. It is important to stir gently to avoid breaking the pieces of fish. If you notice that the liquid is reducing too much, add a little warm water to maintain a warm and flavorful sauce.

After the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have melded, add the finely chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of freshly ground pepper to enhance the taste. Serve this dish warm, alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread, allowing yourself to be carried away by the Mediterranean flavors of baccala. This simple yet flavorful recipe will surely be appreciated by all who taste it.

 Tags:  onion greenery tomatoes potatoes oil olives gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes