Portuguese > Salted Cod

Salted Cod and Potato Stew Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound salted cod
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Soak the salted cod in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours. Drain and rinse the cod.

2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the diced potatoes, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, black pepper, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Add the salted cod to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cod is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if needed.


Time:
Preparation time: 24 hours (for soaking the salted cod)
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing, high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 5g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 1500mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh cod can be used instead of salted cod, but it will not have the same flavor.
- Sweet potatoes or yams can be used instead of white potatoes.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs, but use 3 times the amount.

Variations:
- Add chopped kale or spinach to the stew for extra nutrition.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Add a can of chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and fiber.

Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the salted cod for at least 24 hours is crucial to remove excess salt.
- Be careful not to overcook the cod, as it will become tough and rubbery.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top.

Garnishes:
Chopped parsley or cilantro

Pairings:
Crusty bread, white wine

Suggested side dishes:
Green salad, roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
If the stew is too salty, add more water and potatoes to dilute the saltiness.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the cod is fully cooked before serving.

Food history:
Salted cod has been a staple food in many cultures for centuries, as it was a way to preserve fish before refrigeration.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, salty, slightly sweet

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with crusty bread and a green salad on the side.

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Region: Portuguese

Taste: Savory, Salty, Fishy, Earthy, Tangy