Traditional Portuguese Bacalhoada: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of dried salted cod
  • 500 grams of potatoes
  • 3 large onions
  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • Half a cup of olive oil
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of black olives

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the dried cod in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water occasionally to remove the salt.
  2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices.
  3. Slice the onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers thinly, and finely chop the garlic.
  4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  5. In a baking dish, lay down a layer of onions, then a layer of potatoes, a layer of cod, a layer of tomatoes and peppers, repeating these layers until all ingredients are used.
  6. Between each layer, sprinkle some chopped garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Top the final layer with black olives and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour, until the vegetables are tender and the flavours are well combined.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to get a golden top.
  10. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the dried salted cod with fresh cod or any other white fish.
  • Add some sliced carrots or zucchini to the layers of vegetables.
  • Include some sliced chorizo or bacon for added flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the fish and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant.
  • Add a layer of sliced hard-boiled eggs between the layers of vegetables.
  • Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Try using different herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, or paprika to season the dish.
  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • Instead of baking, cook the dish on the stovetop in a large pan.
  • Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread.

Recipe overview

Bacalhoada, also known as Portuguese Salted Cod Casserole, is a traditional dish enjoyed in Portugal, Brazil, and other countries that celebrate Portuguese cuisine. This hearty, flavourful dish is a delightful medley of dried salted cod (bacalhau), potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes cooked in layers and generously drizzled with olive oil. An essential element is the long soaking of the dried cod to decrease its saltiness, a process that requires some planning ahead but is well worth the effort. The process of baking everything together allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in a comfort meal that's perfect for family dinners or festive occasions. Topped off with a garnish of fresh parsley, this dish is a true testament to the simple yet rich flavours of Portuguese cuisine. Expect a little crunch from the veggies, the flakiness of the cod, and an overall savoury, satisfying experience. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh cod instead of dried salted cod? No, the traditional recipe calls for dried salted cod which has a unique texture and flavor. However, if you cannot find dried salted cod, you can use fresh cod but it won't have the same taste.
  2. How long should I soak the dried cod? Soak the dried cod in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water occasionally to remove the excess salt.
  3. Do I need to peel the potatoes? Yes, peel the potatoes before slicing them thinly.
  4. Can I use different types of bell peppers? Yes, you can use different colors of bell peppers, such as red, green, or yellow, based on your preference.
  5. Can I use other types of olives? While the traditional recipe calls for black olives, you can use green olives if you prefer.
  6. What temperature should I set the oven to? Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  7. How long should I bake the dish? Bake the dish covered with aluminum foil for about 1 hour, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top has a golden color.
  8. Do I need to let the dish rest before serving? Yes, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A dish large enough to fit all the ingredients and suitable for baking in the oven.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish during the initial baking process.
  • Knife - Needed for peeling and slicing the potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
  • Bowl - Used for soaking the dried cod in water.
  • Oven - To bake the bacalhoada dish at the specified temperature.
  • Serving platter - A large dish or platter for presenting the cooked bacalhoada.
  • Garnish - Fresh parsley for garnishing the finished dish.

Origin stories

Once upon a time in the bustling markets of Portugal, 'Bacalhau', or salted dried cod, surfaced as a staple. The ingenious Portuguese, blessed with a bounty of Atlantic cod, developed a novel technique of salting and drying the fish to preserve it. This culinary invention was a lifesaver during the long voyages of Portuguese explorers during the Age of Discovery. As their ships navigated unknown seas, the preserved cod kept the crews nourished. Back home, the humble Bacalhau transformed into countless delightful dishes, each bearing the unique flavors of various regions. One such dish is the Bacalhoada, a hearty casserole layered with rehydrated Bacalhau, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, all bathing in generous splashes of olive oil. Over time, this dish has traveled far beyond the borders of Portugal, winning hearts and palates across the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.