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Bacalhau com Broa

Bacalhau com Broa

The ultimate comfort food, Bacalhau com Broa features flaky cod topped with crispy breadcrumbs that create a delightful contrast. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor and perfect for sharing. Try it tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs cod loins 1-2 loins, soaked for 24 hours
  • 1.5 lbs new potatoes washed and skin on
  • 4 onions sliced thinly
  • olive oil used for cooking and drizzling
  • 2 cloves of garlic chopped
  • 0.25 lbs corn breadcrumbs for topping
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Blender
  • Food Processor
  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Frying pan
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Soak the bacalhau (salted cod) in cold water for 24 hours before preparing the fish, to remove excess salt from the flesh. If possible, change the water 2 or 3 times.
  2. Once ready to cook, place the cod in a pan with enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until cooked.
  3. Take the cleaned new potatoes and poke them with a fork. Add them to a pot and add enough salted water to cover them. Bring to a simmer and cook until just tender. Drain when done.
  4. Meanwhile, partway through the fish cooking, heat up a good splash of olive oil in a frying pan, turn the heat down to low and add the finely sliced onion, frying it until softened.
  5. After the cod has done simmering for 15 minutes, drain it well and add it to the pan with the onions for another 10 minutes or until they both brown nicely. Turn the fish over on the other side after 5 minutes.
  6. Now prepare the breadcrumb mix by adding the corn breadcrumbs and garlic to a food processor and blending it. Pour in some olive oil, a little at a time until the mixture gains a sandy texture.
  7. Preheat the oven to 180º C or 350º F.
  8. Prepare an ovenproof dish and drizzle it well with olive oil. Add the onions at the bottom and the cod on top. Cover each fish piece with a layer of the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently onto the loins so as to not break them apart.
  9. Season with salt and pepper and place in the oven for about 20 minutes until nicely browned.
  10. Serve the Bacalhau warm accompanied by roasted potatoes!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.
  • Tip 2: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked Bacalhau for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Tip 3: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Tip 4: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.
  • Tip 5: Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.